July 16, 2025 – A new chapter for community safety and connection in Gastown has officially begun. Today, the Gastown–Hastings Crossing Community Policing Centre (GHX CPC) opened its doors at 109 West Hastings Street, the original sight of the Woodward’s windows, marking a major milestone for our neighbourhood. Learn more about the City’s official announcement here.
This centre is the result of advocacy and collaboration between the Gastown Residents Association (GRA), the City of Vancouver, the Vancouver Police Department, and numerous other community organisations and volunteers, along with significant funding from the Province of British Columbia. The GHX CPC aims to support a safer, more connected, and more livable community, by and for the people who call Gastown home.
“Over the past couple of years, we’ve heard very clearly from the people that live and work here, including the Gastown Residents’ Association, that they want to feel safer, that they want more support, they want more connection between neighbours and a more visible [police] presence in the community when issues arise,” said Mayor Ken Sim during the opening ceremony at the Woodward’s building.
“This community policing centre will make a real difference — and it’s possible because of the advocacy of your advisory council, your members, the people who step up to lead this community.” Terry Yung, Minister of State for Community Safety & Integrated Services | MLA for Vancouver-Yaletown.
“Locating this new Policing Centre in the storefront left vacant by the TD Bank – behind the once-famous Woodward’s windows (which sadly became a constant target for vandals) – will not only help to rejuvenate that important corner, but also serve as a strong symbolic reminder that the City of Vancouver will not surrender to crime and social disorder.” Brian Davie, President of the Gastown Residents Association.
The Gastown Residents Association extends heartfelt thanks to Mayor Ken Sim, Vancouver City Council, the Vancouver Police Department, and our MLA Terry Yung — as well as to every resident, partner, and volunteer who helped make this vision a reality.
This centre is proof that real change starts at the grassroots — when neighbours come together to lead.
The GHX CPC is a community-led, volunteer-powered, and prevention-focused space that will serve as a hub for safety education, crime prevention, and proactive outreach tailored to the unique needs of Gastown and the Hastings Crossing area. We invite everyone in the community to stop by the GHX CPC, meet the team, and explore upcoming safety and volunteer opportunities.
This is your centre, so let’s build a true home for safety, connection, and community progress!