Jazz Fest is coming to Robson Square!

 

On June 24, 2016, 800 Robson Street (between Howe Street and Hornby Street) will be closed to vehicle traffic, as the organizers of the TD Vancouver International Jazz Festival begin to set up for performances starting on June 25. The street will remain closed in response to Vancouver City Council’s decision earlier this year to permanently close this section of Robson Street in order to create a vibrant public square in the heart of downtown Vancouver.

This summer, staff will be looking to the public for feedback on the design of the public square in addition to developing a stewardship program that will oversee funding and programming of the area. Staff will also be using this opportunity to improve the intersections at Robson and Hornby Streets and Robson and Howe Streets for all road users.

Throughout the summer, tables, chairs and umbrellas will be placed on the street for the public to enjoy and City staff will be looking at different ways the space can be used as part of the consultation and engagement process. So don’t be surprised if you happen to see a Mobi bike share station along with a variety of other programming and activities. Additionally, the Province of BC will begin work on the stair remediation on the south side of the Vancouver Art Gallery on June 27, 2016.

This is an exciting opportunity for you to share your vision of what a public square means and looks like to you. Stay tuned for opportunities and events by following us on Twitter (@vivavan) and Facebook (facebook.com/VivaVancouver/) and visiting us online at vancouver.ca/viva.

Starting with Jazz Fest on June 24, the #5 Robson/Downtown bus will be moved to its alternative route via Burrard and Pender Streets. Know before you go! Visit translink.ca to plan your trip and find your next bus or visit translink.ca/alerts for more information on this route.