The Powell/Port lands and Powell-Clark industrial areas are recognized as significant industrial land assets within the City of Vancouver. The purpose of the study was to examine the economic roles of these two industrial areas and to provide strategic direction to enhance these roles in order to meet the objectives of the Vancouver Agreement DTES Economic Revitalization Plan.
More specifically, the study sought to secure and strengthen the long-term economic vitality for industrial activities in the Powell-Clark industrial areas, capitalize on the areas’ strategic location in achieving economic and environmental sustainability, maintain and enhance Port of Vancouver operations, and increase employment opportunities for local residents, including those who are socio-economically disadvantaged.
CitySpaces used a wide range of methods to conduct the study, including reviewing industrial land policies implemented in the port cities of Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco, Wilmington (Los Angeles), Rotterdam, and Barcelona.
It was established that a combination of policy, program, and regulatory measures coupled with public infrastructure improvements are needed to ensure that the Powell-Clark industrial areas do not continue to deteriorate. Such measures should help to strengthen the position of the Powell-Clark industrial areas so that there is an opportunity to capitalize on future economic growth and increased trade through the Port of Vancouver, the areas’ strategic location, and access to local labour.
The following strategic directions were identified as potential approaches to aid in the redevelopment of the Powell-Clark industrial areas.
- Maintain Powell/Clark as a Business Incubator
- Preserve the Small Lot Pattern
- Examine Zoning Measures for Continued Affordability and Job Intensification
- Provide Opportunities for Business Expansion
- Limit Residential Development
- Create a Districting Strategy
- Address the Quality and Safety of the Public Realm through Public Realm and Infrastructure Upgrades
- Allow Limited Retail Uses along Commuter Routes
- Establish Targets for New Industrial Floor Space
- Develop a Marketing and Information Strategy
- Develop Local Employment Training Programs
- Identify Roles for Government to Facilitate Reinvestment
- Avoid Taxation Schemes
- Incorporate Sustainability Measures
PROJECT TEAM:
Andy Hiscox