The Vancouver City Council has approved an ambitious plan to transform the main section of Granville Street, located in the heart of downtown, into a car-free area, as part of a broader project to revitalize the "Granville" commercial corridor, which has faced increasing economic challenges for years.

The plan, which was unanimously voted on Wednesday evening, aims to convert the street into a hub for pedestrians and public transportation only, with the possibility of fully designating it as a car-free corridor during specific or permanent periods. The project includes enhancing infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists, expanding sidewalks, increasing green spaces, and encouraging cultural and artistic events to attract visitors.

City Councilor Sarah Kirby-Young stated that the plan represents “a radical shift in how this vital street is used,” adding that redesigning the street to serve people rather than vehicles is “essential to revive the heart of Vancouver's business district.”

This step comes in response to a decline in business activity and an increase in the number of closed shops in the area, as well as long-standing calls from local community groups to reimagine the use of public spaces in the city.

The authorities aim through this project to address challenges related to rising homelessness, declining foot traffic in downtown businesses after the pandemic, in addition to supporting the city's climate goals by reducing reliance on private cars.

Initial implementation steps of the plan are expected to begin in 2026, after completing feasibility studies and consulting with various stakeholders, including public transportation companies, shop owners, and residents of the area.