A long-awaited transformation of a key public space in Vancouver’s Chinatown is taking shape, as the Memorial Square Redesign project advances with strong community input and cultural intention.
Located at the historic intersection of Keefer and Columbia Streets, Chinatown Memorial Square is being reimagined to better honor Chinese Canadian heritage, improve public space infrastructure, and revitalize one of Vancouver’s most symbolic urban gathering places. With deep roots in the city’s multicultural legacy and a vision shaped by residents, the redesign is set to play a central role in the ongoing transformation of Chinatown.
Honouring Legacy While Looking Ahead
The Memorial Square Redesign project was born from the 2018 Historical Discrimination Against Chinese People in Vancouver report, a landmark moment that acknowledged past injustices and set the tone for reconciliation and cultural preservation. In alignment with broader initiatives like the Chinatown Transformation work and the North East False Creek Plan, the redesign aims to strengthen Chinatown’s historic character while preparing it for a vibrant future — one that could eventually earn UNESCO World Heritage Site recognition.
Anchoring the square’s importance are nearby cultural assets like the Chinese Cultural Centre, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, and the Chinese Canadian Military Museum. The square, established in 1995, already serves as a setting for key community events, cultural festivals, and moments of remembrance. But decades later, its infrastructure and design are ready for renewal.
*Photo by City of Vancouver
A Community-Driven Vision for the Square
Through multiple phases of community engagement between 2021 and 2025, a clear vision has emerged. The square will be a welcoming, inclusive, and vibrant space where the legacy of Chinese Canadians — including railway workers, veterans, and community builders — is visibly and respectfully commemorated. The draft vision calls for a space where year-round traditions, intergenerational exchange, and cultural celebration can thrive, all while offering an inspirational experience to visitors and locals alike.
Surveys show strong support: 69% of respondents agreed with the draft vision, while 70% supported the outlined goals. Among the top priorities were making the square accessible and culturally meaningful to Chinese seniors, enhancing safety, offering educational opportunities, and providing amenities for festivals and daily use.
*Photo by City of Vancouver
Community-Led Ideas, Design, and Expansion
A 14-member Community Advisory Group (CAG), representing longstanding Chinatown organizations and stakeholders, has played a central role in advising the project team. From the Chinese Benevolent Association to youth collectives and the Chinese Canadian Military Museum Society, the group has helped guide design priorities that reflect both tradition and present-day community needs.
Among the most popular ideas has been expanding the square’s footprint. Community members showed 78% support for a proposal to close the adjacent lane, reduce road widths, and shift curbs — a move that would increase the square’s usable space and reduce traffic impacts while improving pedestrian safety.
Residents also emphasized incorporating flexible infrastructure to support cultural programming, art installations, performances, and markets — all features that reinforce the square as a “living” space. Aesthetic upgrades like lighting, greenery, shade structures, and water features were also high on the wish list.
Addressing Concerns and Future Considerations
While feedback has been overwhelmingly supportive, concerns remain. Community members highlighted ongoing issues like maintenance, cleanliness, and safety — especially given the square’s proximity to the Downtown Eastside. Others called for greater acknowledgment of the unceded Indigenous lands the square occupies and better integration of Indigenous presence and storytelling.
Respondents also asked for amenities such as public washrooms, seating for elders, and low-cost parking. There’s strong interest in ensuring the site is not just beautiful but also practical, inclusive, and active throughout the year.
What’s Next for Memorial Square?
The project is currently in its third phase, with the City having recently closed feedback on three preliminary design concepts. Following this, a preferred design will be refined and presented to the public in fall 2025. The City has committed to ensuring the final design reflects the voices and values of the Chinatown community while also creating a destination space that resonates across cultures and generations.
As Vancouver’s Chinatown continues its journey toward revitalization and potential global recognition, Memorial Square is poised to become not just a physical centerpiece, but a symbol of resilience, cultural pride, and community-led progress.
Curious how this could shape the future of Vancouver’s Chinatown? We’re keeping a close eye on projects like this so our clients always stay informed. Want to be one of them?
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