Vancouver Connects

Welcome 2025

2025 brings fresh opportunities to enhance livability, equity, sustainability and trust in Vancouver. Here's a look at some of our key priorities for the year ahead:

Homelessness emergency

2025 will be the year we finalize plans for Vancouver's bridge shelter. The facilities will provide those experiencing homelessness with a place to stay and receive supportive services to “bridge” the space between living outside and the next step on their journey to permanent housing. 

Our Vancouver: Finalizing our comprehensive plan

The City is updating its comprehensive plan, "Our Vancouver," to guide growth and development over the next 20 years, including planning for 38,000 additional housing units. Using input from extensive community engagement, we'll draft new code language this winter, release the draft plan for public comment mid-year and finalize it by year-end. Learn more and stay informed on Be Heard Vancouver.

Major development projects 

Several long-term redevelopment projects will break ground this year: Main Street Promise, Waterfront Gateway and The Heights District.

Main Street makeover in progress

Construction has begun on the Main Street Promise project. This phased work will improve Main Street in downtown Vancouver from 5th Street to 15th Street. We’re investing in making Main Street safer, more accessible, and connected for businesses, residents, and visitors. Construction is occurring between 12th Street and 15th Street and includes all water, street surface and sidewalk upgrades. 

Tiered water rates

A new water billing system for single-family residential customers starts this month. Tiered water billing is a rate structure that charges different amounts for water used. Water usage is divided into tiers, with each tier charging a higher rate than the previous one. This system promotes water conservation. 

Ways to save water in the new year:

• Take showers instead of baths
• Turn off the faucet when brushing your teeth
• Avoid handwashing dishes and fully load the dishwasher
• Fill up your laundry and wash full loads

Champion a traffic calming project for your neighborhood street

Vancouver community members are invited to submit traffic concerns and champion project locations for the City's 2025 Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program. This program will award $300,000 to local projects to help slow traffic and increase safety in our neighborhoods.

Turn your passion into purpose in 2025

Numerous City departments are brimming with volunteer opportunities for all ages and skill sets in 2025. Dip your toe in the water with one-time service events like Naturespaces or hone your leadership skills and apply to serve on a City board or commission. Our volunteer calendar is your best resource for upcoming one-time opportunities.