Addressing Metro Vancouver’s housing shortfall

In recent announcements, the BC government has identified 10 municipalities, including Vancouver, Delta, Port Moody, the District of West Vancouver, and the District of North Vancouver, as focal points for increasing housing supply under the Housing Supply Act (HSA). The provincial Housing Minister, Ravi Kahlon, has shown a clear commitment to seeking increased density, particularly in single-family zones adjacent to transit corridors, by allowing four to six homes to be developed on any single-family lot across the province.

Creating an imbalance

Currently, the majority of our urban land area — around 75 to 80 per cent — is dedicated exclusively to single-family homes. This imbalance has resulted in a severe shortage of housing supply and the consequent rise in home prices.

A successful paradigm

The concept of increased density along transit corridors has proven successful in areas like the Cambie corridor and Coquitlam alongside the Evergreen SkyTrain line. It is also proposed for the Fraser Valley, as transit service expands and is included in the Broadway plan. However, while driving through Vancouver, one can observe nodes of higher density along transit and major arterial routes surrounded by vast areas of single detached homes just a short distance from downtown. Looking at other ‘world-class cities,’ it becomes evident that densification extends beyond half a block from transit and arterials and forms the majority of the urban fabric.

Still some resistance

Although change is inevitable, the fear of change often accompanies it. While the need to significantly increase housing supply is widely recognized, the reluctance to embrace the necessary steps may hinder or undermine these efforts. Creating the desirable walkable neighbourhood requires density to support local shops, services, transit, parks and community amenities, while reducing car dependency. Simply building low-impact, energy-efficient homes will not be sufficient. Densification will need to encompass a variety of housing forms at different affordability levels to foster vibrant neighbourhoods that cater to residents from all segments of society.

Addressing the shortfall

Municipalities must actively promote healthier designs in multi-unit and mixed-use developments, enticing people into the community through shared amenities, open spaces, and access to essential facilities. The city of North Vancouver has been a pioneer in this regard, establishing its Active Design Guidelines, which prioritize architecture and urban planning that make physical activity inviting and encourages social interaction in new multi-family developments. While the Shipyards area in Lower Lonsdale stands as a notable example of these principles in action, the need to increase density extends beyond urban centres to align with the goals of the HSA to effectively address Metro Vancouver’s housing shortfall.

Fostering a sense of community

The pursuit of housing at accessible rates is a shared responsibility that necessitates the understanding and collaboration of all stakeholders. By engaging in open dialogue, dispelling misconceptions and implementing thoughtful strategies, communities can work toward meeting the housing needs of both current homeowners and future prospective homebuyers. Ultimately, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity will contribute to the collective well-being and ensure a brighter future for all.