Vancouver is undergoing a transformation, with new housing developments, streamlined business processes, and a renewed focus on community infrastructure. According to Mayor Ken Sim and the ABC Vancouver team, this momentum is the result of decisive leadership and a commitment to progress.
Delivering on Promises
Since taking office, ABC Vancouver has actioned 80% of their ambitious 93-point platform, aiming to make Vancouver a more livable, business-friendly, and vibrant city. Their efforts have already led to $30 million in cost savings through smarter budgeting, modernized funding strategies, and the adoption of new technologies.
[content-ad]
Infrastructure Investment and Economic Growth
Recognizing the need for improved public spaces, ABC Vancouver has allocated $3.5 billion through the city’s Capital Plan. This investment is enhancing roads, sidewalks, parks, playgrounds, and community centers across all neighbourhoods. Additionally, the city has lifted the moratorium on large commercial events in parks, boosting cultural and sporting events.
To support businesses, Vancouver has significantly reduced business license processing times by 85% and cut commercial renovation permit wait times by 45%. Small businesses and non-profits have also benefited from property tax relief, and new policies have been implemented to bolster the hospitality sector.
Addressing Vancouver’s Housing Crisis
With rental demand soaring, ABC Vancouver has doubled the number of rental housing starts—the highest rate in Canada. Since 2023, 7,000 new rental homes have broken ground, with another 7,000 in the pipeline. Zoning reforms and policy changes, such as modernizing view cone guidelines, enabling multiplex housing, increasing density near transit, and removing outdated parking requirements, have unlocked up to 75,000 new homes.
[content-ad]
Public Safety and Social Support
A key priority for ABC Vancouver has been public safety. They have fully funded the Vancouver Police Department for the first time in 15 years and Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services for the first time in eight years, resulting in the hiring of 175 new officers—exceeding their original pledge of 100. Beyond law enforcement, investments have been made in mental health services, improved street lighting, and community engagement initiatives to create safer neighbourhoods.
The Downtown Eastside has been a focal point for change. ABC Vancouver is advocating for a new approach that emphasizes recovery, inclusivity, and public safety, including the introduction of Mandatory Care for individuals struggling with severe addiction and mental health issues. Additionally, the team is calling for federal support on bail reform and port security to curb the influx of illicit drugs.
[content-ad]
Looking to the Future
With Vancouver set to host major global events, including Web Summit in a few months and the FIFA World Cup next year, ABC Vancouver sees these as opportunities to further economic growth and showcase the city on an international stage.
As the city prepares for the upcoming by-election on April 5, ABC Vancouver candidates Jaime Stein and Ralph Kaisers are urging residents to keep the momentum going by electing representatives who will continue pushing forward on key initiatives.
For more information, visit abcvancouver.ca/byelection.
