Revitalization: Vancouver Waterfront Milestone is Celebrated

by Spencer Marona, Managing Director

Prior to the 1940s, and for most of the city's history, the waterfront in Vancouver along the Columbia was where the action was at. With shipyards, sawmills, wharves, the waterfront buzzed with life. A transition occurred during the 40s, resulting in the waterfront becoming a giant sawmill for Boise Cascade.

Fast forward to the new millennium and another transition is underway. After a decade of planning, many cheered on the roof of City Hall in Vancouver as the $1.3 billion development began work on deep utility lines. President and owner, Barry Cain, of Gramor Development, responsible for developing some of the region's larger mixed use projects, has another one on his hands.

Credit is due to David Hansen, founder and owner of Hansen Design, a northwest architecture firm. Hansen is responsible for the strategy, graphic design and master use plan of The Waterfront Vancouver. His unique approach and experience has allowed him to work on projects around the globe. Other local master use plans include the Hillsboro's Tanasbourne Master Plan and South Hillsboro Town Center as well as Portland's South Waterfront design.


Congratulations to the City of Vancouver and those responsible for making this happen.