When Vancouver first announced it would be a FIFA host city, plenty of people were sceptical. We’ve all seen big promises come and go, and for many of us, Granville Street had become a place we simply avoided. Crime, open drug use, and the heartbreaking reality of homelessness kept locals away. I hadn’t walked down Granville in years — and I wasn’t alone.
But something remarkable happened.
In preparation for welcoming the world, the City of Vancouver rolled up its sleeves and took action. Granville Street was cleaned up, reimagined, and brought back to life. And the result is nothing short of astonishing.
Walking down Granville now feels like stepping into a different city. The street is closed to traffic, opening it up to people instead — families, visitors, locals, all wandering freely. Street bars spill out with energy, music drifts through the air, and there’s a sense of celebration that feels contagious.
And yes, the police presence is noticeable — but in the best possible way. It feels safe. It feels cared for. It feels like a place you want to be.
For the first time in years, Granville Street feels vibrant, welcoming, and alive.
No wonder visitors from around the world were impressed. Vancouver showed what can happen when a city commits to reclaiming its public spaces and making them shine again. FIFA may have been the catalyst, but the transformation is something every Vancouverite can appreciate.
So here’s a genuine thank you to the City of Vancouver. You did an incredible job — and you reminded us of what Granville Street can be.
We took the Canada Line downtown and got off at Yaletown-Roadhouse. We walked up Davie Street to Granville Street.
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| There were a few of these on Granville Street and everyone was in use The England-Norway game just started when we were there. Many of the outside bars had TV's and lots of people were watching. We got home in the extra time and loved the end of the game. |
