Your trusted source for local Vancouver, BC news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The B.C. real estate market is experiencing a significant decline, with a reported 9.6 percent drop in residential unit sales in March 2025 compared to the previous year. The decrease in sales is attributed to economic uncertainty surrounding U.S. tariffs, leading to a 13.9 percent reduction in market revenue. Notably, while larger markets like Greater Vancouver and Victoria have seen price drops, smaller markets have reported price increases.
A rally at Vancouver City Hall highlighted residents' and hotel union members' opposition to a proposed policy for new hotel room construction. Activists argue that the focus should be on affordable housing rather than increasing hotel capacity, as many locals struggle to afford living in the city. Union campaigner Nate Holers emphasized the urgent need for affordable housing solutions in light of recent electoral outcomes favoring such initiatives.
The First Nations Health Authority emphasizes the ongoing need for harm reduction measures in British Columbia as the province marks the ninth anniversary of its toxic drug crisis. Despite a slight decrease in deaths among Indigenous Peoples, the rate remains alarmingly high compared to non-Indigenous residents. Officials stress the importance of combating misinformation and enhancing tailored support for Indigenous communities to address the crisis effectively.
The Vaisakhi Festival and Parade will take place in Vancouver on April 12, 2025, offering a vibrant celebration of Sikh culture and community spirit. This significant event, featuring the traditional Nagar Kirtan parade, aims to promote accessibility and inclusivity within the community. Attendees can expect a day filled with cultural festivities, food, and spiritual reflection.
The City of Vancouver is constructing a new gravel path to replace the closed Expo Deck south of Science World, ensuring continued access for pedestrians and cyclists. The temporary detour routes will connect users from the Seawall and Seaside Greenway paths, while a more permanent solution is developed. The City appreciates public patience during this emergency closure.
The provincial government of British Columbia has announced a significant investment of $312 million for TransLink, ensuring stable and expanded transit services in Metro Vancouver over the next three years. This funding will help maintain current services and introduce more buses on busy routes, addressing a potential deficit and avoiding drastic cuts. The initiative aims to support regional growth and enhance public transit reliability for residents.
The City of Vancouver has released its 2024 Statement of Financial Information, a crucial document that outlines the city's financial performance and accountability. This report is significant for local stakeholders, including residents and businesses, as it provides transparency regarding financial management. The event will take place on April 10, 2025, and highlights the city's commitment to fiscal responsibility and public engagement.
The B.C. government has implemented a directive aimed at reducing dependency on U.S. suppliers by reviewing all contracts with American companies. Premier David Eby emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses and reducing reliance on the U.S., urging government entities to seek Canadian alternatives. This initiative reflects a broader trend of prioritizing domestic procurement in response to changing consumer preferences.
The British Columbia government is allocating over $5 million to enhance emergency support services for evacuees through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund. This funding aims to improve local capacities for disaster response, emphasizing volunteer training and equipment acquisition. Key projects include initiatives in various communities, including First Nations, to bolster emergency readiness.
BC Transit is set to enhance bus services in Whistler, introducing increased frequency and extended hours on multiple routes starting April 22, 2025. The expansion, which adds 6,000 annual service hours, aims to improve transit accessibility and reduce congestion in the region. Local officials emphasize the importance of reliable public transportation for community connectivity and economic equity.