Major Priorities Being Addressed.

The Gastown Residents Association (GRA) welcomes recent developments that respond to long-standing concerns around public safety, addiction, and mental health services in our community.

In mid-September, a coalition of B.C. mayors, First Nations leaders, and public safety officials issued a joint call for bail reform and mental health care investment following recent random attacks in Vancouver. Their message was clear: meaningful legislative change and properly funded care are urgently needed to protect both the public and vulnerable individuals.

In response, the Province of British Columbia announced new measures that directly address these priorities. Premier David Eby outlined plans to:

• Expand secure mental health units within correctional facilities, beginning with the Surrey Pretrial Centre
• Create regional long-term care facilities for individuals detained under the Mental Health Act
• Increase the number of mental health treatment beds in hospitals across B.C.
• Explore the redevelopment of the former Riverview Hospital site in collaboration with the Kwikwetlem First Nation

These steps come amid growing concerns about individuals cycling through emergency rooms and the justice system without receiving sustained support.

“Our top priority is the safety and well-being of every Vancouverite and British Columbian,” said Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim, who joined Premier Eby and community leaders for the announcement.

While some health advocates have raised concerns about the use of involuntary care, the GRA sees these developments as a meaningful shift toward addressing chronic gaps in our systems.

We commend the collaborative leadership shown by provincial and municipal governments and hope these measures signal continued momentum toward safer, healthier communities.