Our community of Strathcona and Kiwassa in Vancouver, BC is under threat to our community vision, infrastructure and livability with the proposed rezoning of the area of East Hastings at Glen and Vernon Drive to be skyscrapers. 

The Strathcona Residents Association (SRA) held a town hall in September to discuss the shocking Westbank/Promerita proposal of its three-tower “East Village" high-rise development on East Hastings in Strathcona.

The project calls for three towering skyscrapers with heights of 38 storeys (364 ft), 39 storeys (363 ft) and 19 storeys (178 ft) for 924 total units, which is out of context with Strathcona’s infrastructure capabilities and is triple the height and density contemplated in the Downtown Eastside Local Area Plan. 

After discussing the project's possible community benefits and clear shortcomings, it was determined that the SRA and numerous area residents and stakeholders OPPOSE the proposed developments at 1030-1070 E Hastings St., 1115-1127 E Hastings St. and 1168-1180 E Hastings St.

And it is urgent that we stand together now to reject this proposal.

The SRA is concerned about: 

1. The quality, size and liveability of the units being proposed. 
2. The irrevocable impact on our already vulnerable neighbourhood.
3. Parking limitations.
4. Lack of community amenities to support increased density.
5. Lack of connection with Strathcona’s historic human scale and ties to the port.
6. The precedent this rezoning and development may set for future projects along Hastings Street and other nearby arterials. 

While the SRA supports the addition of dignified, affordable housing for the community, we are opposed to the three development proposals as presented, as they deviate drastically from the Downtown Eastside Local Area Plan and fail to address the need for quality housing for the community. 

We respectfully request a reconsideration of the rezoning proposal and exploration of alternative heights and designs to be presented for community consultation. 

Three ways you can help: 

1. Amplify our voice by signing and sharing our PETITION today. Together we can insist on the thoughtful development of housing in our community and honour what makes Strathcona a vibrant and livable neighbourhood. 

2. Join the conversation by attending the in-person INFORMATION SESSION on Oct. 29, 2024 at the Russian Hall at 600 Campbell St. from 5:30-7:30pm and registering to speak, if able. 

3. Give DIRECT FEEDBACK to the City of Vancouver planners via the Shape Your City portal before the deadline of Nov. 5. 

PROPOSAL LINKS: 

https://www.shapeyourcity.ca/1030-1070-e-hastings-st​

https://www.shapeyourcity.ca/1115-1127-e-hastings-st​

https://www.shapeyourcity.ca/1168-1180-e-hastings-st

LOCAL MEDIA ARTICLE:

https://vancouversun.com/business/real-estate/highrise-towers-vancouver-strathcona