Final preparations are underway on Vancouver’s Granville strip as businesses gear up for a major influx of visitors tied to the FIFA World Cup. The stretch of Granville Street between Georgia and Davie streets has been closed to vehicle traffic as the city transforms the downtown corridor into a pedestrian-focused entertainment zone. The activation will include expanded patios, food vendors, live music and additional programming designed to draw crowds throughout the summer. For many businesses along the strip, the changes are being welcomed as a chance to revive foot traffic in an area that has faced recent challenges. Marasol Villegas, a manager at a Mexican restaurant on Granville Street, said staff are optimistic about the buildup and increased activity. “We’re really excited, like everyone else,” Villegas said. “We’re getting ready, building the patio and hiring more staff.” Beyond the planned entertainment offerings, operators say the scale of the pedestrian zone could help shift perceptions of the downtown entertainment district. Claudia Romo, co-owner of the same restaurant, said she is hopeful the changes will bring renewed energy to the area. “Granville has been facing little issues lately but I hope this will bring another perspective of Granville and bring more people to downtown again,” Romo said. The Granville Street entertainment strip has long been a focal point for large-scale public celebrations, most notably during the 2010 Winter Olympics, when it became a 17-day pedestrian party area. Some business owners say they are expecting a similar boost this time around. William Donnellan, of Donnellan’s Pub and The Shamrock, said he is encouraged by the return of a festival-style atmosphere downtown. “I’ve seen the Olympics, I’ve seen how great Granville Street was during the good times and I’m looking forward to going back there and I think this is a huge step in the right direction,” Donnellan said. While Granville Street is closed between Georgia and Davie, several cross streets, including Robson, Smithe and Nelson streets, remain open to vehicle traffic. The City of Vancouver says dedicated bus lanes will be installed along Howe and Seymour streets to help maintain transit flow around the affected area. The pedestrian-only zone on Granville Street is expected to remain in place until late July.
