Yaletown

Population of approximately 1,027 (2006)

Yaletown is a former warehouse district located north of Pacific Boulevard between Nelson and Drake Streets, and bounded by Homer Street to the west. Like many parts of Vancouver, Yaletown's early days were shaped by the railway. When the Roundhouse (now part of the False Creek development) was built along False Creek, it replaced the former Fraser Canyon location in the town of Yale. Some employees literally moved their homes on flatcars to the new Yaletown in Vancouver.

In 1900, the city laid out streets and planned a new eight-block warehouse district near the residences. This warehouse area is what we now know as Yaletown. Most buildings were built between 1909 and 1913. Original tenants were warehousing, truck and transfer companies, and small manufacturers. Although the city expected more warehouses to be developed, the next 30 years saw little industrial growth in the downtown, as cheaper suburban locations were preferred.

During the 1960s, the downtown began its transformation into the high-rise age. Yaletown, with its industrial zoning, was spared except for buildings demolished to make parking lots for office workers. In the late 1970s and early 1980s Yaletown began to change as urban professionals discovered the old warehouses, conveniently located near the CAD. Re-use and renovation of the area's industrial buildings began, and professional offices, up-scale eating places and trendy nightspots appeared.

In the mid-80s the area was zoned HA-3, which encouraged conversion and renovation of existing warehouse buildings and the construction of compatible new buildings. The intent was to produce a contemporary mix of commercial, industrial and residential uses. Like Gastown, a number of "loft-style" projects have been built, indicating a growing residential presence. Recently, Council approved guidelines for improvements to the Yaletown Docks and their characteristic canopies, to recognize heritage merit, and to encourage pedestrian traffic, seating areas and active uses such as outdoor cafes.

In January 1994 a new parkade and plaza opened at Mainland Street and Davie Street. The plaza provided needed open space for residents and employees. The plaza is named after the late Bill Curtis, former Vancouver city engineer.

Related Links:
Yaletown Business Improvement Association

Vancouver School Board

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