The City of Vancouver has approved a temporary pilot program will allow for the consumption of alcohol in four public plazas, beginning Aug. 10.
As the City's latest response to the COVID-19 pandemic, "This pilot program is a responsible way to allow people to safely physically distance while enjoying a drink outside in our city," said Mayor Kennedy Stewart in a release.
"Not everyone has access to their own private outdoor space, and I hope this change signals the beginning of a more vibrant approach to how residents can enjoy themselves outdoors."
As part of the pilot, Vancouverites can now bring and consume alcohol within specified hours at šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl'e7énk Square (the Vancouver Art Gallery's North Plaza), Lot 19 (Hornby and W. Hastings), Bute-Robson Plaza, as well as the temporary pop-up plaza at 17th & Cambie. The program is set to run until mid-October.
According to the release, all four sites will be managed and monitored in partnership with local Business Improvement Associations.
BIAs were invited to submit proposals for suitable sites, based on criteria City of Vancouver staff had established alongside the Vancouver Police Department and Vancouver Coastal Health. Each of the selected spaces are located in commercial areas with access to food and transit.
The City said its staff are working closely with both VPD and pilot partners to "identify, mitigate, and plan for risks associated with this pilot." That means each of the designated spaces will feature signage with health and safety information, while "on-site behaviour rules" will be in effect.
