Downtown Vancouver's Cautious Comeback

0:00Downtown Vancouver's core is showing signs of a cautious comeback, according to the latest report from the Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement. Association. Visitor numbers stayed steady last year despite ongoing worries about crime and disorder. Retail vacancies dropped to 12.7%, the lowest in three years, with net gains in stores and restaurants across the district. Office vacancies climbed to 12.3% in 2025, still high compared to pre-pandemic lows around 2%, but competitive with other big North American cities. Landlords are pushing upgrades to attract picky tenants amid quieter demand, as many stick with renewals in current spots. Business leaders like BIA, CEO, Jane Talbot call it an improved picture year over year, though safety issues like public disorder keep some away. Brokers note spots like Pacific Center succeeding with strong tenant mixes and security, while Granville Street saw a 15% vacancy drop. But remains the top draw with over 51 million visits. Visitors leveled off after post-COVID gains, with locals now at 46% and tourism dipping from immigration changes and U.S. tensions.

1:11Hotel occupancy held at 81%, matching pre-pandemic levels, and over 6,000 new rooms are in development, including 1200, approved locally. Looking ahead, events like the World Cup and sold out Bruno Mars, shows that BC Place should boost foot traffic in restaurant vibes. Talbot says the ability is the foundation for real growth, and when Downtown gives reasons to show up, people do. This has been Canada News Today, powered by AI.