Gastown has been given a pedestrian-only rejuvenation and a design makeover that nods to the area’s Indigenous history. On July 4, the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation) joined the City of Vancouver in reopening Water Street and kicking off its pedestrianized pilot. Maple Tree Square to Cambie Street.
will be open to local traffic only while Maple Tree Sq. and Water St. from Cambie to Richards St.
will be car-free until the end of August, with the area set to host expanded patios with more seating, stalls, live performance and events. Beyond going car-free, there has been an overhaul to the street's esthetics, with Indigenous artwork, storytelling boards and signs paying homage to the culture and history of the three, host First Nations. “We have been out of sight and out of mind on our own lands, for far too long,” said Sxwixwtn (Wilson Williams) Squamish Nation elected council member.
“Lekleki (Gastown) is one of the most historic neighbourhoods in K’emk’emeláy̓ (Vancouver), but until now, has not reflected the deep connection local Indigenous peoples have to the area.” Bringing a splash of vibrant culture and colour to the area are planter art wraps crafted by elementary school-aged Squamish Nation children from Xwemélch’stn Etsimxwawtxw (Capilano Little Ones School), designed in honour of this year’s Earth Day, and Tsleil-Waututh artists Jordan Gallie, Jonas Jones, and Zac George. Alongside them,.