South Granville Plaza West is part of the Pop-up Plazas and Making Streets for People Program in the City of Vancouver, established in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to help businesses reopen and give residents more public space to enjoy in their communities.

Granville x West 13th Ave Plaza was first installed in June of 2020 using simple design and amenities (photos 2, 3, 4). A pop-up plaza created by closing the road for motorized traffic was converted into a thriving public space by using picnic tables, seating, patio umbrellas, and planting pots to serve the community.

Throughout the years, City staff collected feedback and monitored all plazas to make sure spaces were properly maintained, inclusive, and comfortable.

With almost 90% positive feedback after the initial installation, an amazing transformation of Granville x West 13th Ave Plaza took place during the summer of 2022 in collaboration with South Granville BIA, @hcma.ca, the City of Vancouver, @fastepp, and Great Northern Way Scene Shop. The four wooden structures are designed with a semi-covering that is inspired by the lush rainforest that once covered the area. The unique design of the covering not only provides shade and protection from the elements but also adds a natural look to the urban landscape. An on-street plaza has rounded tables, seating, and polka dot asphalt art.

South Granville makes sure to keep things interesting on their plazas by hosting various events for the residents, like Plaza Party or Lunar New Year. A very popular and likable Granville x West 13th Ave Plaza is intended to become semi-permanent for 5-10 years.

What do you think? Do you want to have a pop-up plaza in your neighborhood?

Photos by: @cityofvancouver, @southgranville, @planningtoride