Car-free Sundays are set to make a comeback on Water Street in Vancouver's historic Gastown neighborhood this summer, following the success of last year's pilot program. A report going before Vancouver city council this week confirms the return of the pedestrian zone, which will be in effect on Sundays from early July through early September.
Long-Term Vision for a People-Focused Gastown
The initiative is a key component of the broader Gastown public spaces plan, which aims to transform the area into a more "people-focused" destination with a "multimodal design" for Water Street and Maple Tree Square. This long-term strategy seeks to reimagine the historic downtown Vancouver neighborhood as a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly hub.
Evolution of the Pedestrian Zone
The proposal builds upon two previous summer pilots that temporarily removed or reduced vehicle traffic on Water Street, Gastown's main thoroughfare. While these trials received popular support from residents and visitors, they also faced opposition from some local businesses.
Initial feedback from retailers and businesses along Water Street revealed dramatic decreases in sales and foot traffic after the city transformed three blocks into a pedestrian-only zone during July and August 2024. In response to this input, the city adjusted its approach in 2025, limiting the car-free period to Sundays between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Positive Outcomes and Business Support
The modified Sunday-only approach yielded encouraging results. According to the city report, Sunday pedestrian volumes increased by 19 percent last year compared to weekend numbers in 2024. Perhaps more significantly, business sentiment improved substantially, with 81 percent of respondents in 2025 expressing support for the car-free zone's return, compared to just 59 percent in 2024.
Major Public Space Improvements Planned
The report outlines several complementary initiatives as part of the comprehensive Gastown transformation plan:
- A $20 to $25 million overhaul of Maple Tree Square at the junction of Water, Carrall and Powell Streets
- Potential extension of two-way traffic on Cordova Street to the Powell Street overpass
- "Regularization" of the Sunday pedestrian zone on Water Street as a permanent seasonal feature
Maple Tree Square Transformation
The Maple Tree Square renovation has been identified as a "first priority project" in the plan. The goal is to transform the currently underutilized square into a more flexible public space capable of hosting car-free events and pedestrian activities. This redesign aims to draw both locals and tourists past the iconic steam clock further into Gastown, including Powell and Alexander streets, Trounce Alley, and Blood Alley Square.
Collaborative Implementation Approach
If approved by council, city staff will work closely with the Gastown Business Improvement Society, local businesses, and residents on design decisions and construction impacts. Additionally, staff will collaborate with the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw First Nation to establish a "cultural kiosk" at the square. This feature would tell the Nation's story through information boards installed on a sculptural element, serving as a response to the removal of the Gassy Jack statue from the square in 2022.
Transportation Studies Underway
The report also recommends conducting studies and engaging with businesses and TransLink regarding the potential extension of two-way traffic on Cordova Street past Gore Avenue to the Powell Street overpass. This transportation adjustment would complement the pedestrian-focused improvements while maintaining necessary vehicle access to the area.
The return of car-free Sundays represents a significant step in Vancouver's ongoing efforts to create more livable, pedestrian-oriented urban spaces while balancing the needs of local businesses and residents.
