City advances new actions to strengthen the Downtown Eastside

Vancouver City Council has approved $2 million for urgent life-safety upgrades to Single Room Occupancy (SRO) housing, part of the SRO Revitalization Framework aimed at improving living conditions. While the long-term goal remains to replace aging SROs with modern social housing, current investments are critical to preventing room loss in the housing continuum. To enhance the local economy, the council endorsed a Temporary Occupancy Permit Pilot that facilitates six business types in activating vacant storefronts. The City also continues to invest in mental health services, advocating for ongoing provincial funding for daytime drop-in spaces that provide essential community services. Furthermore, Council requested federal reforms to ensure high-risk repeat offenders are not released into the community pre-trial, while promoting diversion courts for low-risk offenders.

The DTES Housing Implementation Report, proposing changes to zoning regulations to support revitalization without displacement, will be discussed in a public hearing on December 9, 2025. These actions reflect the City’s commitment to working collaboratively with federal and provincial partners to address pressing community needs. Annual progress reports will track the outcomes of these initiatives.