Vancouver Approves 1,000-Unit Rental Tower Project at Commercial-Broadway Amid Public Debate

Vancouver council has given the green light to a large-scale residential project at the Commercial-Broadway SkyTrain station, despite heated debate over affordability and neighbourhood character.

The approved rezoning at 1780 East Broadway, currently home to a Safeway and parking lot, clears the way for three residential towers ranging from 36 to 43 storeys — bringing over 1,000 new rental units to the area.

A Controversial Vote

Proposed by Westbank Projects Corp. and Crombie REIT, the project faced a marathon public hearing, where more than 100 residents voiced concerns. Critics argued that the tall towers, far higher than surrounding buildings, would drive up area rents without delivering enough affordable homes.

Only 10 per cent of the units will be secured at city-wide average market rents — a rate critics say is still unaffordable for many workers in Vancouver. The remaining 90 per cent will be rented at market rates set by the developer.

Coun. Sean Orr was the lone councillor to vote against the project, citing concerns about the “limited public benefits” in exchange for a massive height and density increase. Coun. Pete Fry abstained and Coun. Brian Montague was absent.

Supporters Cite Urgency

Despite the pushback, a majority of councillors supported the plan, emphasizing Vancouver’s urgent need for new rental housing.

“I don’t want to see this site remain undeveloped for another 10 or 20 years,” said Coun. Lucy Maloney. “I want to see a surface car park replaced with over 1,000 homes.”

The redevelopment will also include commercial space, a grocery store, offices, a child-care facility, and a new public plaza.

A Question of Affordability

Critics, including local nurse Nancy Hay, said the plan falls short of what’s needed for essential workers.

“I wonder who these towers are really for,” said Hay. “They’re not going to house my coworkers — the respiratory therapists, lab techs, and care aides who can’t afford to live in the city.”

The proposal technically exceeds the height and density envisioned in the Grandview-Woodland Community Plan but was still approved under its broader guidelines.

While supporters say the project represents a responsible use of transit-connected land, opponents warn it risks becoming another example of high-end housing marketed as “affordable” without meaningful public return.