Latest News in Vancouver, BC

Raising the bar Good Night Out launches Last Call Audit to champion safer and more inclusive hospitality venues across Vancouver

The City of Vancouver launched the Last Call Audit program to enhance safety in hospitality venues during Prevention of Violence Against Women Week. Funded by the city and run by Good Night Out Vancouver, this initiative evaluates safety practices and provides resources to participating establishments. Mayor Ken Sim emphasized the importance of public safety and inclusivity in Vancouver’s nightlife.

Vancouvers Jericho Lands development moves forward

Vancouver city council approved a significant development project for the Jericho Lands, set to create 13,000 affordable housing units in 60 buildings. The project, which will include schools, parks, and retail spaces, aims to transform the West Point Grey neighbourhood over the next 25 years. Seven councillors supported the proposal while four, including Mayor Ken Sim, were absent.

New affordable homes open in Castlegar

Thirteen new rental homes opened in Castlegar at Eagle Estates, providing affordable housing for families, seniors, and individuals, including those with developmental disabilities. The development features eight one-bedroom apartments and a five-bedroom staffed living space, supported by Community Living BC. This initiative is part of a broader $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government.

Unanswered questions abound as B.C. gets closer to rolling out free IVF program

British Columbia's publicly funded in vitro fertilization (IVF) program will start accepting applications in less than two months, but uncertainties remain. Dr. Ghadeer Akbar of Grace Fertility Clinic urges the province to raise the cut-off age for eligibility and provide two free IVF rounds instead of one. Delays in the program could significantly impact patients seeking fertility treatments.

BC Ferries vessel breakdowns expected to continue

BC Ferries anticipates worsening service due to an aging fleet, exemplified by a recent steering failure on the Horseshoe Bay-Langdale route. The provincial government has delayed the replacement of older vessels until at least 2029, attributing the setback to the COVID-19 pandemic and regulatory approval processes.

Vancouver Police asking for witnesses of Gurdwara vandalism to come forward

Vancouver police seek witnesses to a vandalism incident at the Khalsa Diwan Society Gurdwara, where suspects spray-painted graffiti in English and Punjabi. The vandalism occurred early Saturday morning, and police released images of a white truck and two individuals who may have information about the event.

Man arrested, charged after tourist violently assaulted in Vancouver

A 34-year-old man faces charges after violently attacking a female tourist near Vancouver's Stanley Park on April 15. The victim, who was on vacation, fought off her assailant multiple times during the brutal encounter. Vancouver Police apprehended the suspect, who had prior arrests and was out on bail at the time of the attack.

New Westminster police warn of jewelry scammers targeting seniors

New Westminster police warn seniors of jewelry thefts involving fraudsters who exchange fake jewelry for real items. An incident on March 18 led to a loss of approximately $3,000 from a senior citizen. Authorities urge anyone with information to report suspicious activities.

City seeking input on actions to increase housing options and accelerate SRO replacement in the Downtown Eastside

Vancouver seeks public input on proposed policy changes to boost housing options in the Downtown Eastside, particularly for residents in Single Room Occupancy buildings. Proposed updates aim to facilitate the construction of low-income housing and replace aging SROs while enhancing tenant protections.

East Vancouver fire damages multiple businesses, displaces 7 East Hastings Street closed

A fire in East Vancouver closed East Hastings Street between Nanaimo and Lakewood Streets on Wednesday morning, displacing seven residents. Vancouver Fire Rescue Services reported that multiple businesses, including a restaurant and a butcher shop, suffered damage, while crews worked to extinguish the blaze that reignited after initial containment.