City of Vancouver

Emergency Messages as of 6:41 PM, Mon. Jun 8

No information currently posted.

logo

Subscribe to receive FlashAlert messages from City of Vancouver.

Manage my existing Subscription

News Release

City To Celebrate Rededication Of Restored Salmon Run Bell Tower (Photo) - 06/02/26

Vancouver, Wash. – The City of Vancouver will celebrate the rededication of the Salmon Run Bell Tower from 11:30 a.m. to noon Friday, June 5 at Propstra Square in Esther Short Park, 605 Esther St.

The free community event marks the completion of a restoration project to preserve the beloved landmark for future generations.

 

Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle and Vice Chairman of the Chinook Indian Nation, Sam Robinson, will open the rededication event by sharing how the tower’s artwork and storytelling elements were created to honor Indigenous history and culture in the region. At noon, the bell tower will once again come to life as the restored glockenspiel and animated diorama return to operation after years of inactivity.

 

Originally dedicated in June 2002, the Salmon Run Bell Tower was a gift from George and Carolyn Propstra. The 69-foot tower, designed by Cindy Sterry, serves as a centerpiece of Propstra Square and reflects Vancouver’s connection to the Columbia River and the region’s first peoples.

 

Inside the tower, a rotating sculptural diorama combines motion, storytelling and audio narration to present the Chinook legend of the salmon. The narration, recorded by William Joseph Elk III, accompanies the immersive display.

 

The tower also features a 35-bell glockenspiel with bronze bells cast in the Netherlands. The carillon is scheduled to ring daily at noon, 2 p.m., and 4 p.m., followed by the animated salmon legend presentation.

Surrounding the tower are brass salmon sculptures created by Jim Demetro and Kevin Maddix, along with inscribed stones and commemorative donation bricks.

To honor the original community gift and preserve this Vancouver landmark, funding for the restoration project was included in the City’s 2023-24 budget.

 

Learn more about the project and the rededication event at www.cityofvancouver.us/belltower.

 

 

###

Attached Media Files: 2002 Salmon Run Bell Tower dedication.,

City To Celebrate Rededication Of Restored Salmon Run Bell Tower (Photo) - 06/02/26

Vancouver, Wash. – The City of Vancouver will celebrate the rededication of the Salmon Run Bell Tower from 11:30 a.m. to noon Friday, June 5 at Propstra Square in Esther Short Park, 605 Esther St.

The free community event marks the completion of a restoration project to preserve the beloved landmark for future generations.

 

Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle and Vice Chairman of the Chinook Indian Nation, Sam Robinson, will open the rededication event by sharing how the tower’s artwork and storytelling elements were created to honor Indigenous history and culture in the region. At noon, the bell tower will once again come to life as the restored glockenspiel and animated diorama return to operation after years of inactivity.

 

Originally dedicated in June 2002, the Salmon Run Bell Tower was a gift from George and Carolyn Propstra. The 69-foot tower, designed by Cindy Sterry, serves as a centerpiece of Propstra Square and reflects Vancouver’s connection to the Columbia River and the region’s first peoples.

 

Inside the tower, a rotating sculptural diorama combines motion, storytelling and audio narration to present the Chinook legend of the salmon. The narration, recorded by William Joseph Elk III, accompanies the immersive display.

 

The tower also features a 35-bell glockenspiel with bronze bells cast in the Netherlands. The carillon is scheduled to ring daily at noon, 2 p.m., and 4 p.m., followed by the animated salmon legend presentation.

Surrounding the tower are brass salmon sculptures created by Jim Demetro and Kevin Maddix, along with inscribed stones and commemorative donation bricks.

To honor the original community gift and preserve this Vancouver landmark, funding for the restoration project was included in the City’s 2023-24 budget.

 

Learn more about the project and the rededication event at www.cityofvancouver.us/belltower.

 

 

###

Attached Media Files: 2002 Salmon Run Bell Tower dedication.,

City Council Adopts Comprehensive Plan To Guide Vancouver’s Growth Over The Next 20 Years - 06/02/26

Vancouver, Wash. – On June 1, the Vancouver City Council adopted a new Comprehensive Plan, along with an updated zoning code and zoning map at their regular City Council meeting. The new plan, Our Vancouver 2026–2045, and code will guide how the city grows over the next 20 years, shaping where homes, jobs, parks, streets, and public services will be located and how they will look and function.
 

"Community input guided every step of this plan," said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. "People told us what is working, what needs to change, and what kind of Vancouver they want to build for future generations. This plan was built on their ideas, concerns, and hopes for a more equitable and sustainable future. Their voices shaped the decisions we made and the direction we are taking."

 

Vancouver is expected to grow by 81,000 people by 2045, which means at least 38,000 more homes and 43,000 more jobs are needed to help keep Vancouver livable and affordable for current and future residents. The new plan and code lay out how the City will manage future growth and development to meet the community’s long-term vision. Changes will occur gradually as property owners submit new development proposals and as the City implements the plan.
 

The previous Comprehensive Plan, adopted in 2011, no longer reflected community needs and state requirements. The new plan and code better address climate action priorities, the housing and homelessness crisis, economic trends, opportunity for all, and new state laws. Additionally, Vancouver is required to adopt an updated plan under Washington’s Growth Management Act. The plan is designed to be flexible. Minor updates typically occur each year, and a full review and update are required at least once every 10 years to adapt to new trends, technologies, and community needs.

 

The plan reflects more than three years of community engagement, including input from community members at more than 100 meetings and events. The Planning Commission has also been involved in creating the plan and code and unanimously recommended its adoption on April 28, 2026.
 

"It has been deeply meaningful to watch community voices take shape in the formation of this comprehensive plan," said Planning Commission Chair Patrick Adigweme. "Residents challenged ideas, asked hard questions, and made clear that growth must be equitable to be meaningful. While not everyone agreed on every detail, I hope all can recognize their contributions in the final plan."

 

The plan and code apply only within Vancouver’s current city limits. Areas outside the city, including in Vancouver’s urban growth area, continue to be managed under Clark County’s Comprehensive Plan, which is also being updated. The plan and code become effective July 31, 2026. More information is available on the Our Vancouver page on Be Heard.

 

Photos available upon request.

 

###

 

City Council Adopts Comprehensive Plan To Guide Vancouver’s Growth Over The Next 20 Years - 06/02/26

Vancouver, Wash. – On June 1, the Vancouver City Council adopted a new Comprehensive Plan, along with an updated zoning code and zoning map at their regular City Council meeting. The new plan, Our Vancouver 2026–2045, and code will guide how the city grows over the next 20 years, shaping where homes, jobs, parks, streets, and public services will be located and how they will look and function.
 

"Community input guided every step of this plan," said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. "People told us what is working, what needs to change, and what kind of Vancouver they want to build for future generations. This plan was built on their ideas, concerns, and hopes for a more equitable and sustainable future. Their voices shaped the decisions we made and the direction we are taking."

 

Vancouver is expected to grow by 81,000 people by 2045, which means at least 38,000 more homes and 43,000 more jobs are needed to help keep Vancouver livable and affordable for current and future residents. The new plan and code lay out how the City will manage future growth and development to meet the community’s long-term vision. Changes will occur gradually as property owners submit new development proposals and as the City implements the plan.
 

The previous Comprehensive Plan, adopted in 2011, no longer reflected community needs and state requirements. The new plan and code better address climate action priorities, the housing and homelessness crisis, economic trends, opportunity for all, and new state laws. Additionally, Vancouver is required to adopt an updated plan under Washington’s Growth Management Act. The plan is designed to be flexible. Minor updates typically occur each year, and a full review and update are required at least once every 10 years to adapt to new trends, technologies, and community needs.

 

The plan reflects more than three years of community engagement, including input from community members at more than 100 meetings and events. The Planning Commission has also been involved in creating the plan and code and unanimously recommended its adoption on April 28, 2026.
 

"It has been deeply meaningful to watch community voices take shape in the formation of this comprehensive plan," said Planning Commission Chair Patrick Adigweme. "Residents challenged ideas, asked hard questions, and made clear that growth must be equitable to be meaningful. While not everyone agreed on every detail, I hope all can recognize their contributions in the final plan."

 

The plan and code apply only within Vancouver’s current city limits. Areas outside the city, including in Vancouver’s urban growth area, continue to be managed under Clark County’s Comprehensive Plan, which is also being updated. The plan and code become effective July 31, 2026. More information is available on the Our Vancouver page on Be Heard.

 

Photos available upon request.

 

###

 

Groundbreaking Celebrates Investment In The Future Heights District (Photo) - 05/27/26

Vancouver, Wash. - Shawn Bills, State Director for U.S. Sen. Patty Murray, joined City leaders, local businesses, and project partners gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of the East Mill Plain Boulevard and MacArthur Boulevard intersection project, the first public investment in the Heights District redevelopment. The project was funded through a $4 million federal appropriation supported by U.S. Sen. Patty Murray, along with local funds. 

 

Improvements will transform the intersection of East Mill Plain Boulevard and MacArthur Boulevard into a corridor with safe, multimodal travel options, featuring a greenbelt with enhanced pedestrian pathways and dedicated bike lanes. 

 

The project serves as one of the primary gateways to the future Heights District and represents the beginning of redevelopment efforts planned for the area. 

“The Heights District is home to some of the most racially and socioeconomically diverse communities in Clark County,” said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. “Long-term redevelopment is intentionally designed to create a new, inclusive, mixed‑income neighborhood that will serve residents for generations.” 

 

“The City is investing in infrastructure in the Heights District to lay the foundation for a thoughtfully planned community and to support private development,” said Amy Zoltie, Real Estate Project Manager at the City. 

 

Upcoming projects include the Grand Loop, another federally funded project scheduled to begin construction in spring 2027, improvements to the intersection at East Mill Plain Boulevard and Devine Road, development of a civic plaza, and four housing projects expected to add approximately 300 affordable homes. 

Over the next 20 years, the City-led redevelopment will bring affordable and market-rate housing, retail, restaurants, parks, community gathering spaces, and a new public plaza to the area. 

 

Construction on East Mill Plain Boulevard and MacArthur Boulevard starts June 1. Work is expected to finish in late spring 2027, weather and construction conditions permitting. 

 

Visit Public Works Projects to learn more about upcoming construction and visit The Heights District to learn more about the City’s long-range investment in the area.   

 

### 

Attached Media Files: MacArthurMillPlainProject_groundbreakingrenderings.JPG, Leadership at shovel ceremony (l-r): David Perlick, City Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services Director; Patrick Quinton, City Economic Development Director; Shawn Bills, State Director for US Senator Patty Murray; Amy Zoltie, City Real Estate Project Manager; Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle; Councilmember Ty Stober; Councilmember Diana Perez; Lon Pluckhahn, City Manager; Councilmember Kim Harless, MacArthurMillPlainProjectgroundbreakingMayorAnneMcEnernyOgle.JPG, MacArthurMillPlainProjectgroundbreakingplan.JPG, MacArthurMillPlainProjectgroundbreakingShawnBillsStateDirector.JPG,

Groundbreaking Celebrates Investment In The Future Heights District (Photo) - 05/27/26

Vancouver, Wash. - Shawn Bills, State Director for U.S. Sen. Patty Murray, joined City leaders, local businesses, and project partners gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of the East Mill Plain Boulevard and MacArthur Boulevard intersection project, the first public investment in the Heights District redevelopment. The project was funded through a $4 million federal appropriation supported by U.S. Sen. Patty Murray, along with local funds. 

 

Improvements will transform the intersection of East Mill Plain Boulevard and MacArthur Boulevard into a corridor with safe, multimodal travel options, featuring a greenbelt with enhanced pedestrian pathways and dedicated bike lanes. 

 

The project serves as one of the primary gateways to the future Heights District and represents the beginning of redevelopment efforts planned for the area. 

“The Heights District is home to some of the most racially and socioeconomically diverse communities in Clark County,” said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. “Long-term redevelopment is intentionally designed to create a new, inclusive, mixed‑income neighborhood that will serve residents for generations.” 

 

“The City is investing in infrastructure in the Heights District to lay the foundation for a thoughtfully planned community and to support private development,” said Amy Zoltie, Real Estate Project Manager at the City. 

 

Upcoming projects include the Grand Loop, another federally funded project scheduled to begin construction in spring 2027, improvements to the intersection at East Mill Plain Boulevard and Devine Road, development of a civic plaza, and four housing projects expected to add approximately 300 affordable homes. 

Over the next 20 years, the City-led redevelopment will bring affordable and market-rate housing, retail, restaurants, parks, community gathering spaces, and a new public plaza to the area. 

 

Construction on East Mill Plain Boulevard and MacArthur Boulevard starts June 1. Work is expected to finish in late spring 2027, weather and construction conditions permitting. 

 

Visit Public Works Projects to learn more about upcoming construction and visit The Heights District to learn more about the City’s long-range investment in the area.   

 

### 

Attached Media Files: MacArthurMillPlainProject_groundbreakingrenderings.JPG, Leadership at shovel ceremony (l-r): David Perlick, City Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services Director; Patrick Quinton, City Economic Development Director; Shawn Bills, State Director for US Senator Patty Murray; Amy Zoltie, City Real Estate Project Manager; Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle; Councilmember Ty Stober; Councilmember Diana Perez; Lon Pluckhahn, City Manager; Councilmember Kim Harless, MacArthurMillPlainProjectgroundbreakingMayorAnneMcEnernyOgle.JPG, MacArthurMillPlainProjectgroundbreakingplan.JPG, MacArthurMillPlainProjectgroundbreakingShawnBillsStateDirector.JPG,

GROUNDBREAKING FOR EAST MILL PLAIN AND MACARTHUR PROJECT - 05/26/26

What: 

The City will host a groundbreaking ceremony for the East Mill Plain Boulevard and MacArthur Boulevard project with U.S. Sen. Patty Murray. The project marks the first of several planned infrastructure and redevelopment investments in the Heights District.

 

The project will transform the intersection of East Mill Plain Boulevard and MacArthur Boulevard into a safer multimodal corridor featuring a greenbelt with enhanced pedestrian pathways and dedicated bike lanes. The greenbelt is planned to extend the length of MacArthur Boulevard which will be completed in future phases. The project was funded through a $4 million federal appropriation supported by the Senator, along with local funds.

 

The project serves as one of the primary gateways to the future Heights District and represents the beginning of broader redevelopment efforts planned for the area. Upcoming projects include the Grand Loop, another federally funded project scheduled to begin construction next spring, as well as improvements to Devine Road, development of a civic plaza, and four housing projects expected to add approximately 300 affordable homes and new retail spaces adjacent to the plaza.

 

The Heights District is a City-led redevelopment initiative planned over the next 20 years that will bring affordable and market-rate housing, retail, restaurants, parks, community gathering spaces, and a new public plaza to the area.

 

Construction on the East Mill Plain Boulevard and MacArthur Boulevard greenbelt project is expected to be completed in late spring 2027, weather and construction conditions permitting.

 

Who:

Speakers include:

  • U.S. Sen. Patty Murray
  • Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle

 

When:          10 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 27

 

Where:         5005 East Mill Plain Boulevard, Vancouver, WA 98661

 

Limited off-street parking is available near the construction site.

 

Visit Public Works Projects to learn more about upcoming construction and visit The Heights District to learn more about the City’s long-range investment in the area.

 

B-roll and photos will be available for media following the event.

 

RSVP: tracie.ramirez@cityofvancouver.us

 

 

 

GROUNDBREAKING FOR EAST MILL PLAIN AND MACARTHUR PROJECT - 05/26/26

What: 

The City will host a groundbreaking ceremony for the East Mill Plain Boulevard and MacArthur Boulevard project with U.S. Sen. Patty Murray. The project marks the first of several planned infrastructure and redevelopment investments in the Heights District.

 

The project will transform the intersection of East Mill Plain Boulevard and MacArthur Boulevard into a safer multimodal corridor featuring a greenbelt with enhanced pedestrian pathways and dedicated bike lanes. The greenbelt is planned to extend the length of MacArthur Boulevard which will be completed in future phases. The project was funded through a $4 million federal appropriation supported by the Senator, along with local funds.

 

The project serves as one of the primary gateways to the future Heights District and represents the beginning of broader redevelopment efforts planned for the area. Upcoming projects include the Grand Loop, another federally funded project scheduled to begin construction next spring, as well as improvements to Devine Road, development of a civic plaza, and four housing projects expected to add approximately 300 affordable homes and new retail spaces adjacent to the plaza.

 

The Heights District is a City-led redevelopment initiative planned over the next 20 years that will bring affordable and market-rate housing, retail, restaurants, parks, community gathering spaces, and a new public plaza to the area.

 

Construction on the East Mill Plain Boulevard and MacArthur Boulevard greenbelt project is expected to be completed in late spring 2027, weather and construction conditions permitting.

 

Who:

Speakers include:

  • U.S. Sen. Patty Murray
  • Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle

 

When:          10 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 27

 

Where:         5005 East Mill Plain Boulevard, Vancouver, WA 98661

 

Limited off-street parking is available near the construction site.

 

Visit Public Works Projects to learn more about upcoming construction and visit The Heights District to learn more about the City’s long-range investment in the area.

 

B-roll and photos will be available for media following the event.

 

RSVP: tracie.ramirez@cityofvancouver.us

 

 

 

City To Host Free Music, Movies And More This Summer In Vancouver (Photo) - 05/26/26

Vancouver, Wash. – Vancouver’s summer calendar is packed with free ways to enjoy live music, community celebrations, arts, and the outdoors. Starting in July, Vancouver Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services department is offering a full lineup of free, family-friendly events designed to bring the community together and make the most of the summer season.

 

Whether you are picnicking at a waterfront concert, enjoying a movie under the stars, or exploring a local festival, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

 

America250

 

Celebrate America’s 250th birthday in true Vancouver style from noon to 11 p.m. on July 3 at the Fort Vancouver Parade Grounds. This free event is presented by the Historic Trust and City of Vancouver. The day includes live music, family games and activities, and food vendors. Throughout the day there will be tours of the historic Marshall House and demonstrations from the Fort Vancouver Historic Weapons Program and the Fort Vancouver National Park facilities will be free from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs to close out the evening with a film screening of “A League of Their Own” (PG) under the stars, sponsored by Kaiser Permanente.

 

Free concerts

 

Dance your summer evenings away at one of Vancouver’s two free concert series. Performances are family friendly and offer a great way to connect with the community and experience the talent of the Pacific Northwest. Please remember, alcohol is not permitted in parks.

 

Vancouver Waterfront Concert Series
Location: Vancouver Waterfront Park, 695 Waterfront Way
Dates: Thursdays, July 9 to 30 | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Set along the Columbia River, this series features a world music lineup including Cuban sensations Dina Y Los Rumberos, Jujuba’s Afrobeat, and Latin swing by the Shangai Woolies. Indian funk group Cha Wa joins us from Louisiana thanks to a new collaboration with Clark College Foundation. This concert series is presented by the Waterfront Vancouver Parking Center.

 

Sunday Sounds at Columbia Tech Center
Location: Columbia Tech Center Park, 17701 S.E. Mill Plain Boulevard
Dates: Sundays, July 12 to Aug. 16 | 6 to 8 p.m.
Bring a picnic or enjoy food from local vendors while listening to family-friendly rock, soul and country from Aaron Meyer, Tracy Stone Band, Petty Fever, Slicker Band and Kalimba. The July 26 concert with Prom Date Mixtape will include live ASL interpretation. This concert series is presented by Riverview Bank.

 

Free Friday Night Movies

In August, the big screen comes to life with Free Friday Night Movies under the stars, presented by Kaiser Permanente.

Location: Various parks throughout Vancouver
Dates: Fridays, Aug. 7 to 28 | Movies start at dusk
Enjoy big-screen favorites including “Fantasia (1940),” “Super Mario Galaxy,” “Zootopia 2” and “Superman (2025)". Arrive before the movie starts for fun activities and special performances. All movies are captioned. “Superman” will be presented with on-screen American Sign Language (ASL).

 

Festivals and celebrations

 

Celebrate the season at a variety of free festivals and community events:

 

Vancouver Arts & Music Festival
Location: Esther Short Park
Dates: Aug. 7-9
This three-day event includes outdoor stages, GRAMMY-winning musicians, art demonstrations, community workshops and dozens of local food and craft vendors.

 

Additional free summer celebrations:

Esther Short Park and other venues will also host additional summer events organized by local businesses and community partners. While not all events are free, they offer great opportunities to connect and celebrate Vancouver’s vibrant culture.

 

Plan your summer

 

With no cost to attend City-sponsored concerts and movies, Vancouver is the perfect destination for affordable summer fun. Consider supporting local vendors by purchasing food, gifts, and other treats at events.

 

Visit www.cityofvancouver.us/events or connect with Vancouver Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services on Facebook and Instagram to make the most of your summer in Vancouver.

 

 

###

Attached Media Files: People gathering to enjoy events at Waterfront Park,

City To Host Free Music, Movies And More This Summer In Vancouver (Photo) - 05/26/26

Vancouver, Wash. – Vancouver’s summer calendar is packed with free ways to enjoy live music, community celebrations, arts, and the outdoors. Starting in July, Vancouver Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services department is offering a full lineup of free, family-friendly events designed to bring the community together and make the most of the summer season.

 

Whether you are picnicking at a waterfront concert, enjoying a movie under the stars, or exploring a local festival, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

 

America250

 

Celebrate America’s 250th birthday in true Vancouver style from noon to 11 p.m. on July 3 at the Fort Vancouver Parade Grounds. This free event is presented by the Historic Trust and City of Vancouver. The day includes live music, family games and activities, and food vendors. Throughout the day there will be tours of the historic Marshall House and demonstrations from the Fort Vancouver Historic Weapons Program and the Fort Vancouver National Park facilities will be free from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs to close out the evening with a film screening of “A League of Their Own” (PG) under the stars, sponsored by Kaiser Permanente.

 

Free concerts

 

Dance your summer evenings away at one of Vancouver’s two free concert series. Performances are family friendly and offer a great way to connect with the community and experience the talent of the Pacific Northwest. Please remember, alcohol is not permitted in parks.

 

Vancouver Waterfront Concert Series
Location: Vancouver Waterfront Park, 695 Waterfront Way
Dates: Thursdays, July 9 to 30 | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Set along the Columbia River, this series features a world music lineup including Cuban sensations Dina Y Los Rumberos, Jujuba’s Afrobeat, and Latin swing by the Shangai Woolies. Indian funk group Cha Wa joins us from Louisiana thanks to a new collaboration with Clark College Foundation. This concert series is presented by the Waterfront Vancouver Parking Center.

 

Sunday Sounds at Columbia Tech Center
Location: Columbia Tech Center Park, 17701 S.E. Mill Plain Boulevard
Dates: Sundays, July 12 to Aug. 16 | 6 to 8 p.m.
Bring a picnic or enjoy food from local vendors while listening to family-friendly rock, soul and country from Aaron Meyer, Tracy Stone Band, Petty Fever, Slicker Band and Kalimba. The July 26 concert with Prom Date Mixtape will include live ASL interpretation. This concert series is presented by Riverview Bank.

 

Free Friday Night Movies

In August, the big screen comes to life with Free Friday Night Movies under the stars, presented by Kaiser Permanente.

Location: Various parks throughout Vancouver
Dates: Fridays, Aug. 7 to 28 | Movies start at dusk
Enjoy big-screen favorites including “Fantasia (1940),” “Super Mario Galaxy,” “Zootopia 2” and “Superman (2025)". Arrive before the movie starts for fun activities and special performances. All movies are captioned. “Superman” will be presented with on-screen American Sign Language (ASL).

 

Festivals and celebrations

 

Celebrate the season at a variety of free festivals and community events:

 

Vancouver Arts & Music Festival
Location: Esther Short Park
Dates: Aug. 7-9
This three-day event includes outdoor stages, GRAMMY-winning musicians, art demonstrations, community workshops and dozens of local food and craft vendors.

 

Additional free summer celebrations:

Esther Short Park and other venues will also host additional summer events organized by local businesses and community partners. While not all events are free, they offer great opportunities to connect and celebrate Vancouver’s vibrant culture.

 

Plan your summer

 

With no cost to attend City-sponsored concerts and movies, Vancouver is the perfect destination for affordable summer fun. Consider supporting local vendors by purchasing food, gifts, and other treats at events.

 

Visit www.cityofvancouver.us/events or connect with Vancouver Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services on Facebook and Instagram to make the most of your summer in Vancouver.

 

 

###

Attached Media Files: People gathering to enjoy events at Waterfront Park,

Pedestrian-friendly Waterfront Way Weekends Are Here For The Summer (Photo) - 05/22/26

Vancouver, Wash. –  After three weekends of piloting car-free days on Waterfront Way between Parkway Place and Esther Street, the City will move to a seasonal weekend closure from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, 4 p.m. Fridays through 5 a.m. Mondays. 
 

The pilot demonstrated that a pedestrian-focused environment improves safety and creates a more relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. It also showed that reducing vehicle access helps deter unsafe driving behaviors, including street racing, creating a calmer and more predictable environment for everyone on the waterfront. Additional closures on Main Street and West Sixth Street, adjacent to Esther Short Park and known for high foot traffic and frequent events, are also planned over the summer event season. 

 

“Reducing vehicle access on Waterfront Way during the summer months allows residents and visitors to enjoy the riverfront without noise or congestion,” said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. “As we make similar closures on streets around Esther Short Park, one of our busiest community spaces, and on Main Street, we’re creating a safer, more relaxed experience for everyone who spends time downtown.” 

 

People can continue to reach the waterfront by parking at nearby garages and surface lots, using public transit, biking, or walking. The pedestrian zone affects vehicle movement, not access to businesses or the waterfront. 

 

Use the Park Whiz website or app to access the more than 2,000 nearby parking spaces at the Waterfront Vancouver Parking Center and Terminal 1 or use the Parking Kitty app to access more than 6,000 surface street spaces in downtown Vancouver. There are 152 bike parking spots available throughout downtown Vancouver. Residents and visitors can make parking plans using the Public Parking Map.  

 

 

### 

Attached Media Files: Map of Waterfront Way closure between Parkway Place and Esther Street., Waterfront Way road closure.,

Pedestrian-friendly Waterfront Way Weekends Are Here For The Summer (Photo) - 05/22/26

Vancouver, Wash. –  After three weekends of piloting car-free days on Waterfront Way between Parkway Place and Esther Street, the City will move to a seasonal weekend closure from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, 4 p.m. Fridays through 5 a.m. Mondays. 
 

The pilot demonstrated that a pedestrian-focused environment improves safety and creates a more relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. It also showed that reducing vehicle access helps deter unsafe driving behaviors, including street racing, creating a calmer and more predictable environment for everyone on the waterfront. Additional closures on Main Street and West Sixth Street, adjacent to Esther Short Park and known for high foot traffic and frequent events, are also planned over the summer event season. 

 

“Reducing vehicle access on Waterfront Way during the summer months allows residents and visitors to enjoy the riverfront without noise or congestion,” said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. “As we make similar closures on streets around Esther Short Park, one of our busiest community spaces, and on Main Street, we’re creating a safer, more relaxed experience for everyone who spends time downtown.” 

 

People can continue to reach the waterfront by parking at nearby garages and surface lots, using public transit, biking, or walking. The pedestrian zone affects vehicle movement, not access to businesses or the waterfront. 

 

Use the Park Whiz website or app to access the more than 2,000 nearby parking spaces at the Waterfront Vancouver Parking Center and Terminal 1 or use the Parking Kitty app to access more than 6,000 surface street spaces in downtown Vancouver. There are 152 bike parking spots available throughout downtown Vancouver. Residents and visitors can make parking plans using the Public Parking Map.  

 

 

### 

Attached Media Files: Map of Waterfront Way closure between Parkway Place and Esther Street., Waterfront Way road closure.,