Two of the North Shore’s waterfronts are in for a sea change. In West Vancouver and in the City of North Vancouver, waterfronts are about to become quite different from how they have been in the decades leading up to now; and entirely different from each other. Both the plans and the ways they’ve come about reflect the differences between the communities.
First, there’s what’s not in plans for either waterfront. North Van considered – then jettisoned – its ferris wheel idea, partially because it would have meant major infrastructure upgrades. West Van residents defeated plans for a waterfront wine bar – keeping the world safe from late-night clinking.
After getting a consultant’s report in 2013, North Van is slated to have their skating rink, splash pool, and concert stage finished by 2018. West Vancouver embarked on a tentative five-year plan Monday after first allowing for 40 years of second thoughts.
While North Vancouver is looking to add, West Vancouver is hoping to subtract, bringing fewer buildings and parking spots to their waterfront.
North Vancouver is seeking glitz while West Vancouver is courting green.
Both plans are dynamic and suit their communities – but only West Van’s plan leaves a wide margin for change and error. Argyle Avenue could be reopened, boaters could be welcomed back to the ramp, and green space could be paved over. The city’s plan is more ambitious and more fraught with risk. What if the costs of cooling the ice rink become prohibitive? What if the hotel folds and the only band willing to play on the concert stage is Nickelback?
We applaud the city’s bravery, and welcome the first footsteps forward in West Van. Onward, into the future.
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