New school at Olympic Village
In April 2024, the Ministry of Education and Child Care approved $150 million in funding to support the construction of a new school in Olympic Village.
Building a school in the Olympic Village area has been a top priority for the Vancouver School Board since 2006. Over the past decade, Olympic Village has seen significant population growth, including growth among families with school-aged children. This increase has led to enrolment pressures and underscored the urgent need for an accessible, seismically safe school within walking distance for the Olympic Village community.
Location | 215 West 1st Avenue, Vancouver BC |
School Capacity | 630 students (Gr. K-7) |
School Building Area | 5,000 square meters (Including a neighbourhood learning centre) |
Site Area | 2,700 square meters |
Proposed Building Height | Four-story school with a rooftop play area (school use only) |
+ Background
In 2007, the City of Vancouver adopted the official development plan for the South East False Creek area. As part of this plan, a parcel of land was earmarked for the future construction of an elementary school. Olympic Village is located at the southeast end of False Creek and the school site is located just west of Columbia Street and adjacent to Hinge Park. The school is one fundamental element of creating a complete community that enables residents to live, work, shop, learn and play in their neighborhood.
In 2022 the Vancouver City Council and the Vancouver School Board took a significant step forward by approving a 99-year ground lease for the site. While funding for the new school had not yet been secured, this lease agreement laid the groundwork for the development process. It ensured that once funding was approved, the design and construction of the new school could commence without delay.
In April 2024, a major milestone was reached when the Ministry approved $150 million to build the new school. The Ministry of Education and Child Care is responsible for approving and funding major capital projects for school districts, including the construction of new schools.
Current Process
To advance the design and construction of a new school, the Vancouver School Board (VSB) must obtain the necessary approvals from the City of Vancouver, including a rezoning, development permit and building permit. The rezoning application will address minor changes to the current zoning that was established nearly 20 years ago.
The city permit processes are critical steps in aligning the project with the current context while ensuring it adheres to modern building codes, sustainability standards and overall design principles.
Community members can share their feedback during the rezoning process. We will also seek input from inherent rights holders, VSB’s formal stakeholder groups, interested parties and the public as the process advances. Details about how to share your feedback with the City of Vancouver will be provided as they become available.
Feedback received will help refine the design to ensure the school not only meets the current educational needs but also supports the long-term growth and vibrancy of the Olympic Village neighborhood. There will be several opportunities to provide feedback.
Subscribe to [email address] for project updates and how you can share your feedback.
Timeline
