Downtown Vancouver's main entertainment district is getting a new look.
The City of Vancouver gave the green light for a new vision for Granville Street.
"The current lack of daytime activity on Granville Street has seen a rise in vacant storefronts, safety and public disorder concerns, violence related to public intoxication, and concern for people experiencing homelessness," says a news release.
Plans to "breathe life" into the Granville Entertainment District includes new hotel development, a pedestrian-focused public space, and support for the district's vibrant nightlife.
The Granville Street Planning Program also aims to strengthen job space, increase safety, and expand tourism.
"While balancing the need to preserve the area's unique heritage character, staff will explore new opportunities for entertainment, dining and tourism, hotel, retail and office space," reads the news release.
Renderings show proposed development atop Commodore
Granville Street's makeover is already underway.
A 17-storey building has been proposed in the heart of the entertainment district.
Located at 800-876 Granville Street, the mixed-use commercial building would have four levels of underground parking to accommodate 98 vehicles and 363 bicycles, three storeys of retail space, a restaurant and cultural space on the fourth floor, and office space.
The proposed area currently includes popular retail stores such as Urban Outfitters, Oak + Fort, Brandy Melville, and Adidas, as well as other spaces like the Commodore Ballroom, State Hotel, The Ox Pub, and popular bowling spot Commodore Lanes.
The Commodore Ballroom, Commodore Lanes, and the facade of the State Hotel would remain intact.
