The Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement Association (DVBIA) has unveiled its first More Awesome Now reimagined laneway. Work is underway to transform the laneway that runs behind West Hastings street between Seymour and Granville, from utilitarian service corridor into a bright, playful public space to be shared by people and vehicles.
More Awesome Now is an experiment in reshaping city laneways into engaging, accessible public spaces that contribute to the vibrancy of the city. The project is a partnership between the DVBIA, the City of Vancouver?s VIVA Vancouver program, and HCMA Architecture + Design.
?Laneways serve an important business function, but for a big part of the day they are underused and full of potential,? says Charles Gauthier, President & CEO, DVBIA. ?So we asked, if we make our lanes more appealing, could they become public spaces" More Awesome Now is an experiment in turning laneways into places of discovery – friendly, accessible, and lively parts of the urban streetscape.? In juxtaposition to its location in the heart of the business district, the reimagined Hastings West laneway is themed ?Play?. The lane has been painted in bold pinks and yellows and soon will be outfitted with basketball hoops and furniture. Decorative lighting and a geolocation orb will also be installed. The public is invited to use the laneway for play, exercise, or socializing.
?Boldly re-imaging downtown laneways can bring vibrancy to under-utilized spaces ...