As many as 40 percent of people would like to see more places to sit and rest along Lonsdale Avenue, according to a public engagement summary that will be discussed by the City of North Vancouver council today.
The City of North Vancouver is seeking public opinion on the Lonsdale Great Street Project, which aims to revitalize Central Lonsdale by improving public spaces, supporting businesses, and enhancing walkability. Staff will present the first public engagement report to the council today.
According to the staff report, seating and rest areas are the top public space improvements residents would like to see, with 34 percent calling for more public art and 20 percent asking for better street lighting. As many as 25 percent of respondents want more public spaces and plazas to improve the overall experience of moving through and spending time in the area.
Some residents feel the current public spaces could be more inviting. “Even though there has been an attempt to add curbside seating areas, sitting and hanging out’s not particularly inviting. One respondent noted that more trees and green spaces may help with that. Others called for better pedestrian experiences, fewer car-focused streets, and more space for walking and cycling.
Vibrant nightlife is missing
A vibrant nightlife was also a common request. Some respondents pointed out that the area becomes too quiet after 8 p.m., with one resident saying, “There needs to be a reason to go to Central Lonsdale after 8 p.m. Currently, the area is very quiet after this time, even on a Friday or Saturday night.”
Many residents also expressed a desire for more greenery and parks. According to the engagement report, 63 percent of respondents want more street trees and greenery, while 33 percent want more parks and play areas. According to the engagement report, one person suggested that more greenery would be better. “The traffic is heavy, so I think more greenery could help create a safer environment to block the traffic sound and pollution smell.”
Residents also pointed out the lack of biodiversity-focused plantings, with one survey participant saying: “I can’t enjoy nature as there are hardly any trees or plantings to encourage biodiversity of insects and bird life.”
Business activity is another primary focus of the Lonsdale Great Street Project. According to the engagement summary, 48 percent of respondents believe Central Lonsdale must remain lively with businesses and commerce. In comparison, 26 percent emphasized preserving and enhancing the area’s unique character. Residents strongly supported local businesses, with 65 percent wanting more local shops, 52 percent supporting more food and beverage offerings, and 34 percent calling for more retail options.
However, some respondents also noted gaps in the area’s entertainment options. “We are desperately lacking a little art house cinema,” one resident stated, while another suggested, “I wish there were venues that offer comedy nights, maybe small venue live music—any kind of performance would be fun.”
More housing, more rentals
Beyond commercial activity, housing density and mixed-use development were also highlighted. Some residents feel that current housing options are limited, with one respondent stating, “I wish there was more housing—more condos and rental options.” Others pointed out the need for better-designed mixed-use developments, calling for more ground-floor retail and commercial space with residential and office spaces above while still maintaining access to natural light and mountain views.
The Lonsdale Great Street Project is a multi-phase initiative that will unfold over several stages, including feasibility analysis and an implementation plan. The project area spans from Victoria Park to the south, the Upper Levels Highway to the north, St. Georges Avenue to the east, and Chesterfield Avenue to the west.
With the first phase of public engagement now complete, CNV council will review the findings and incorporate public feedback into the project’s next steps.
I don’t think they mean those ugly plywood boxes. They need to go. Like they have in lower Lonsdale. Get rid of all the money exchange places. Someone should be fired at city hall allowing so many.
Lower Lonsdale is beautiful. I walk up to the top of Lonsdale everyday it’s like you’re in a different city.
What about the 57% that wanted it to stay the same or put it back to how it was. If it was a referendum, parking would have won!!!!!!