PARKS RECRIATION
SCHOOLS
■"I". !.,,i.iJ-. ' ■. JL-^^Jjl^M-jgJ^U
VANC
NOVEMBER, 1946
Digitized by the Internet Archive
in 2011 with funding from
City of Vancouver Archives
http://www.archive.org/details/preliminaryreporOOvanc
A PRELIMINARY REPORT
UPON
PARKS AND RECREATION
AND
SCHOOLS
VANCOUVER
TOWN PLANNING
COMMISSION
VANCOUVER, liRlTlSii COLUMBIA
VANComcR 11 r.
HARLAND BARTHOLOMEW AND ASSOCIATES
Town Planning Consultants
St. Louis, Missouri
October, 1946 Price: $1.00
Photograph by Leonard Frank
SiWASH Rock, Stanley Park, StRAiT of Georgia
"But the tall, grey column of stone uill still be there .... aud xi/// endure from everlasting to everlasting."
E. Pauline .Johnson's "Legends of i'ancoui'er"
VANCOUVER CITY COUNCIL
1945
Mavor, ]. W. Cornett
Aldermen
John Bennett George Buscombe H. L. Corey W. D. tiREVELL
Charles Jones George C. Miller Jack Price Charles E. Thompson
City Officials
City Engineer Charles Brakenridge, m.e.i.c.
City Comptroller Frank Jones
Corporation Counsel D. E. McTaggart, b.a., k.c.
City Clerk Ronald Thompson
City Solicitor A. E. Lord, b.a.
Medical Health Officer S. Stewart Murray, m.d., d.p.h.
Building Inspector Andrew Haggart
VANCOUVER BOARD OF PARK COMMISSIONERS
1945
A'lembers R. Rowi: Holland, b.a., Cliainiiaii F. A. Armstrong, b.a. Don C. Brown Duncan A. MacUonald
Tilly J. Rolston, m.l.a. Arnold A. Webster, m.a., b.paed.
George Thompson P. B. .STRdVAN. B.A.sc, M.E.LC, Park Stipcriiitt-iidciif and Engineer
VANCOUVER BOARD OF SCHOOL TRUSTEES
1945
Members
John Henderson, Cliairnian
Ethvi.e Mak JiARNAKi) Jami:s Blackwood Thomas Brooks
Ada Crumi' K. A, ( i. Fellows .\nnie Bruce Jamieson. b.a.
Elmore Meredith, b.a. James G. Sinclair
H. N. ALvcCorkindale, b.a.. Superintendent of Schools
R. Straight, b.a.. Senior Inspector of Schools
O. J. Thomas, b.a.. Inspector of Schools
H. F. Hines, Secretary
VANCOUVER TOWN PLANNING COMMISSION
1945
Members
Charles T. Hamilton, b.a.sc. m.l.lc, Chainnaii
H. V. Jackson, V ice-Chairman
Earl M. Bennett, phm.b. Frank E. Buck, b.s.a. J. C. McPherson
Joseph Briggs F. N. Hamilton W. R. Owen
J. S. Porter, m.r.a.i.c.
Ex-Officio Members Alderman H. L. Corey Representing \'anjou\er City Council
E. A. Cleveland, ll.d., m.e.i.c Chainnaii, \'ancouver and Districts Joint
Sewerage and Drainage Board.
Don C. Brown Representing Board of Park Commissioners
Elmore Meredith, e.a Representing Board of School Trustees
F. \\'. G. Sergant Representing Vancouver F'ort Authoritv
Staff
J. Alexander Walker, b.a.sc, c.e., m.e.i.c. Executive Engineer
F. Marjorie Ross, Secretary
TOWN PLANNING CONSULTANTS
Harl.\nd Bartholomew and Associates
H.\RLAND Bartholomew Russell H. Riley
Eldridge H. Lovel,\ce
Resident Engineer J. Alexander Walker, b.a.sc, c.e., m.e.i.c.
Staff, Vancouver Elliott A. Schmidt, b.a.sc John H. F. Eassie
M. ISOBEL BeVERIDGE
ZONING BY-LAW" BOARD OF APPEAL W'. Dalton, Chairman R. M. Edgar John Elliott, b.c.l.s
Albert J. Harrison, Secretary
3
HARLAND BARTHOLOMEW AND ASSOCIATES
city planners - civil engineers - landscape architects
317 north eleventh street Saint Louis i, ^Missouri
February, 1945.
Town Planning Commission, \'ancouver, British Columbia.
Gentlemen :
In accordance witli our agreement we are i)leased to submit here- with a preliminary report upon a proposed s\'stem of recreational facilities. This includes findings and recommendations regarding both parks and schools.
Vancouver is especially fortunate in possessing such a fine nucleus for an outstanding park system. Stanley Park and the waterfront areas are especially valuable assets. The large number of smaller parks, distributed through the residential sections, will l)ecome an increasingly important portion of the future park system. The recom mendations contained herein provide for the coordination and proper utilization of all public recreational facilities.
During the preparation of this report we have had the most helpful cooperation and assistance from the officials of both the Park and School Boards. We especially wish to acknowledge the assistance of Mr. P. B. Stroyan, Superintendent and Engineer of Parks.
Respectfully submitted,
HARLAND BARTHOLOMEW AND ASSOCIATES
Bx Russell H. Riley.
TAl'.LE OF CONTEXTS
Page
INTRODUCTION 8
Relationship of Schools and Parks 8
Relation to Population Studies 8
Objectives of this Report 9
DESIRABLE STANDARDS FOR A RECREATIONAL SYSTEM 10
Major Play Requirements of Different Age Groups 10
Modern Standards of Recreational Facilities 12
EXISTING RECREATIOxNAL FACILITIES 16
Growth of Park Areas 16
Comparison of Park Areas in Vancouver with Other Cities 17
Location of Recreational Areas 18
Schools 20
Summary \ 20
PROPOSED PARK FACILITIES 22
Existing Large Parks and Waterfront Areas 23
Proposed Large Parks and Waterfront Areas 30
Existing Neighborhood Park Areas 34
Proposed Neighborhood Parks 42
Proposed Athletic and Play Fields 45
Suggested Treatment of Parks Not Included in Neighborhood Park
System 50
Existing Areas \\'hich Should Be Retained 50
Areas Which Should Be Disposed of by the Park Board 54
ADMINISTRATION OF THE RECREATIONAL SYSTEM 56
SCHOOL FACILITIES— PAST TRENDS AND EXISTING CONDITIONS. 60
Trend in School Enrolment 60
Existing Elementary Schools 63
Existing High Schools 67
PROPOSED SYSTEM OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS 68
Area Around Central Business District 68
District South of English Bay and West of Granville Street 69
Area South of False Creek — Between Granville and Victoria Streets 70
Southeastern Portion of the City 71
PROPOSED SYSTEM OF HIGH SCHOOLS .„. 73
King George 73
Britannia and Templeton Schools 73
5
TABLE OF CONTENTS—Coiitiiuicd
Page
Lord Byng 73
Kitsilano 73
King Edward 74
Magee 74
John Oliver 75
New Sites 75
Sites to be Abanddiied _ _ ......'.. 76
TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOLS
IXDKX ()I- l'r,ATP:S
Page
Plate 1. Types of Recreational Facilities ]]
Plate 2. Existing Parks and Schools Facing IS
Plate 3. Proposed Park Facilities ...Facing 22
Plate 4. Proposed Development of English Bay Beach Facing 25
Plate 5. Proposed Development of Spanish Banks Beach Facing 28
Plate 6. Proposed Development of Queen Elizabeth and Hillcrest Parks 29
Plate 7. Proposed Development of John Hendry Park (Trout Lake) 39
Plate 8. Chart: Population; School Enrolment; Births; Deaths 61
Plate 9. Elementary School Enrolment and Duplication of Service 62
Plate 10. Proposed System of Elementary Schools Facing 68
Plate 11. Proposed System of High .Schools Facing 73
PARK SECTION
INTRODUCTION
During the past decades the citizens of A ancouver have evidenced a pro- n(junced interest in securing and using park and recreational areas. However, recreational areas are becoming such an increasingly important part of the city's physical structure that continuous attention must be focused upon them.
As a city grows, vacant areas are absorbed by residences, stores, and industrv, and public park and recreational areas must be provided. The citizens have more time to use recreational areas, and likewise more need for them. Parks are needed not only because of their recreational opportunities, but also to provide open space in districts that would otherwise be a continuous development of homes and other urban uses. Thus they not only assist in providing desirable living conditions, but they also tend to improve and stabilize property values. \'ancouver would be a much less desirable place in which to live today if the bathing beaches and park areas were absorbed by other types of urban development. There is adequate room for all land uses in \^ancou\'er, and ample park areas must be pro\-ided.
RELATIONSHIP OF SCHOOLS AND PARKS
Public educational facilities are also an essential part of the city's structure. The school playground is becoming an equally important part of the educational system, and an ample play area should adjoin each school. It is only logical tliat this playground should be used throughout the calendar year, thus making it unnecessary for another public agency, such as the Park Board, to duplicate the school playground facilities for use during the summer months. Manv economies and advantages can also be obtained if an additional area be acquired around the school grounds to provide recreational opportunities for the adults. This would provide a recreational centre that is properly related and of interest to all persons in the surrounding residential district. It is these neighborhood recreational areas that must receive special consideration in tlie revised plan for A^ancouver. They are fundamental in providing desirable living conditions, maintaining property values, and in insuring an efficient, economical, and desirable future citv. Because of the close relationship between school and ])ark tacilities, it is onlv logical that they be studied as a unit.
RELATION TO POPULATION STUDIES
A number of park improvements will be needed in the future, and it is essen- tial that any such improvements he properly related to the existing and future population which the}- will serve. Thus the present study is closely coordinated with the pre\'ious report upon the amount and distribution of population. Not only will this assist in assuring proper location for the necessary projects, but an adequate system of schools and parks has an important influence in securing a desirable population pattern.
8
Tlie city now has a number of small undeveloped park sites, and there is also a substantial amount of tax delinquent property. These areas must be carefully appraised to determine whether they can logically become a part of the future park system. W'herever possible, such publicly-owned lands should be utilized, yet the existence of such land should not weigh too heavily against an adequate and proper location.
OBJECTIVES OF THIS REPORT
This report contains ( i ) a hriei analysis of modern recreational standards which will serve as a guide to be approximated as closely as local conditions permit in the development of an adequate park and school system; (2) an appraisal of existing school and park facilities to determine their adequacy and defects; and (3) a proposed system for parks and schools, together with certain recommenda- tions as to the logical treatment and development of the more important areas.
The report has been closely related to the recommendations regarding schools and parks contained in the 1930 Town Plan. The variations from the early plan primarily result from (i) new requirements of population development, or (2) changing conditions which make impractical the following of some of the earlier recommendations. The revised plan provides a logical long-range scheme for secur- ing adequate park and recreational facilities at a minimum cost.
DESIRABLE STANDARDS FOR A RECREATIONAL SYSTEM
A comprehensive system of park and recreational areas must serve all sections of the city and must be so diversified that they provide for the recreational needs of all age groups. This section is concerned ( i ) with an analysis of the dominant play requirements of the different age groups, and (2) with the modern standards regarding location and size of the various types and areas.
-MAJOR PLAY REQUIREMENTS OF DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS
Population in a large city such as \ ancouver can be divided into four major groups from the standpoint of their interest in and desire for recreational facili- ties. A brief discussion of each group and its dominant play interests follows.
1. Small Ciiildkkn. This includes the children of pre-school age, normally five years and younger. For the most part they should be under the care of their parents, and thus their primary pla\- facilities should be on the home grounds. In apartment developments a few small playgrounds might be provided nearbv. There is also an increasing use of privately conducted nurseries. Public agencies, how- ever, are not ])rimarily responsilile for the play of these children other than such incidental use as they may make of the neighborhond plav areas provided for other groups.
2. School Children. This includes the children of elementary school age. A large portion of their time is spent in the public schools where they engage in the use of play apparatus and in group games under proper supervision. Thus, the public school playground shoukl be their main recreational area, and it should be made available for their use throughout the year. They will, of course, have some incidental interests in the large parks, neighborhood parks and athletic fields, but their dominant interest is in the school grounds.
3. YofTiis. This includes the children of teen age, and their i)rimary interest is in competitive games and sports. The majority of them attend the junior, senior, and technical high schools, where recreational facilities should be available as a part of the school programme and should also be used throughout the year. A num- ber of youths do not attend the public schools, yet they still have an interest in games and sports. Provision for their play requirements must either be made in the school grounds during the summer months, in the large athletic fields provided by the city, or in the neighborhood and large parks where they can play tennis, base- ball, soccer, et cetera.
4. Adults. The adults have two major interests from the standpoint of recre- ation. Some of them will desire to engage in active games and sports, while others will be more interested in passive recreation such as auto and horseback riding, picnicking, walking, and the like. One of the major recreational facilities that sliould be available is a neighborhood park, where certain games, such as lawn
10
t swLi. cairuititiAi rii.k\ rioviDi
O^EN S»*Cf 4NOMI4 fO» »tS1
n3KTiCMS or iN[ cirr «itt
SMALL ORNAMENTAL PARK.S
COWHUIIITCIIIfftt. i*t:
■ '<iuK)n<OOD MfETiNG
ni»cc, icHOOLj-iMnrwl
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M>V '•-iRVe- 1
COMMUNITY CENTERS
i It "
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1 IVCROUNOt fOR V.itSAtjy .
[SOibOi PtkKHOUNDS ^mOuKI,-^-— j ■GROUNDS SllCUlO
IN [DUCltlOHM *.'■ Will RirnltllONItt SIGNIflftNCt.
SUPERVISED SCHOOL PLAYGROUNDS
CERTAIN StCriONi OHnE
Pittiunt oi\ivs srsTtM
SHOULD M OF- THE- fORM»LftOUttV»(lB ITf t
loTHfP. StCIlOISOf THtTimuftS DllVJ sr^ivi SHOUID 6t Of ine
PLEASURE DRIVES
Fooiuii sistuu sacEi:^ uacss e cwctfT neias
*M UttOtD M CDNKtcriOH ■.- .
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SHOuio^iRvi Dimns fjr FROM t-iH mil]
f.AOIU^ tf',l40ULl fitOM P-TJifm
fb« StI Of PliVFKlOS ^MOULD M LOCAKO A1 It< WGM SCHOOLS
I (HE^F ^MCHJID » SUWIHtHrEO BY
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^£l^
LARGE PARKS
\Vt\KI MUAIt Hill {Ol NlSIDtNIIftl IRtl .SHOUID lltVt
|t<tiGHao»ncxi* *w.K
A PAKI or T"!^ r,?( SNOID CDOrt HufTI
NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS
SWIMMING POOLS
ZOOS
OUTDOOK THEATRES
TENNIS COUFLTS
GARDENS
SPECIAL FACILITIES
|
TYPES |
OF |
|
PECREAT ONAL |
FACIL TIES |
|
HARLAND &ARTHOLOMEW 6 ASSOCIATES CITY PUNNING ENGINEERS |
VANCOUVER TOWN PLANNING COMMISSION 194.5 |
Plate I
bowling, horseshoes, checkers, and the Hke, may be available, as well as picnic areas and attractive landscaped portions for passive recreation. The adults will also be particularly interested in large parks such as Stanley Park, where there are attrac-
The people's quiet enjoyment of their parks
Photograph by Jack Skinner
Lost Lagoon, Stanley Park
tive displays of flowers and plants, where auto riding under pleasant conditions can be enjoyed, and where there are opportunties for golf, picnicking, hiking, and similar pastimes.
As indicated above, there can be no complete line of demarcation in the use of the different types of local areas by the four major population groups, and there will naturally be some overlapping of use. However, any comprehensive recrea- tional system must provide adequate facilities for these four age groups.
MODERN STANDARDS OF RECREATIONAL FACILITIES
Plate Number i graphically shows the various types of recreational facilities needed to serA-e the city's population, and the commonly accepted standards regard- ing the location and size of each area. These are discussed as follows:
Small Ornamental Parks. A number of small ornamental parks, particu- larly at street intersections, are found in practically all cities. There are no stan- dards regarding- their location and area, and they primarily result from topography and street arrangement. They are useful as open spaces, particularly in intensively developed portions of the city, and add to the attractiveness of an urban area. However, they afford little opportunity for recreational use, and, because of their maintenance cost, the number of such areas should be kept to a minimum. In resi- dential districts it is quite logical for them to be maintained by the surrounding propert\' owners since they are of particular Ijenefit to such properties.
Supervised School Playgrounds. Each elementary school should be located upon a site containing at least five acres. In normally developed residential sections thev should serve an area within one-half mile of tlie school. In intensively devel- oped apartment districts, a shorter radius ma}' be desirable, wliile in the outlying, sparsely settled sections children can walk three-quarters of a mile to reach the school. The area of the site should be increased if the enrolment is unusually large, but at least five acres is desirable to provide for adequate play space in addition to the building site.
Playfields. Playfields should be attached to the junior and senior high schools. An area of at least ten acres is desirable in connection with each school site, and a larger area is needed if the senior high schools accommodate a large enrolment. The junior high school pupils can walk about a mile, and thus a mile is a desirable radius of service. Senior high school pupils can travel even greater distances, particularly if transit facilities are utilized. The School Board in \^an- couver has adopted a desirable polic}- of developing smaller high schools and having them serve the same radius as the junior high. Under this arrangement both schools can be developed on the same site, but an area larger than ten acres is needed. The playfields adjoining the schools should be improved with softl^all diamonds, soccer fields, running track, tennis courts, and similar facilities, as Avell as a large open area for the conducting of physical education classes.
Neighborhood Parks. The neighborhood parks should be more intensively used than any other type of area, especially if they are combined with elementary school grounds. An area of at least ten acres or more is essential — twenty acres is better. They should serve approximatel}- the same radius as the elementary school, namely, one-half mile. The average neighborhood park should contain play facilities for the children, an open lawn for unorganized games or for one or more Softball diamonds, tennis courts, recreational facilities for the adults such as lawn bowling, horseshoes, and similar games, and an attractively wooded or landscaped area for passive recreation and for picnicking".
Community Centres. Community centres are primarily facilities for indoor recreation and are of particular interest to the adults. Economy can be obtained if the elementary schools are designed so that a portion of this building can be used as a communit}' centre. A gymnasium, auditorium, and separate rooms for engag- ing in hobby or craft work are essential. These should be designed for use without interference with the remainder of the school building, ^^'herever such facilities
13
caniKJt be pru\ided in the school l)uilding"s, the_\' should be made available in the neighborhood jmrks as a part of a held house or as a separate structure.
PboIn*-;ral)'i. The nnwen-Suttnn ('(iinp;
lU-ocktoii Point and I'aitcotivcr Skx-linc
l.iil.
I'aukw AYS. Scenic Drives and Boui.i:\ ards. These are important links in a park system. They not only add to the interest of automobile pleasure driving" which is one of the major forms of modern recreation, but they als(^ greatly improve the appearance of the cit}'. These should be much wider than the normal citv street. with a right-of-way of at least 120 feet and preferably 200 feet or more. They should be attractively planted and landscaped, and should be free from commercial and truck traffic. A location along a body of water or along ravines is especially desirable. The City of ^'ancouver has an unusual opportunity to develop an excel- lent parkway system because of the large amount of water surrounding the city.
Large Parks. These include areas of too acres or more, such as .Stanley Park. They should be selected primarily from the standpoint of outstanding topography. and for the most part should be retained in a natural wucided conditimi. They should contain some drives making the various areas accessible to the pnpnlation.
14
Some of them may be utilized fur golf courses, while others may contain swim- ming pools, arboretums, picnic areas, and the like. Many cities are remembered and praised because of their large park developments. They are certainly essential, but should not be overemphasized to the disadvantage of the smaller, more intimate recreational areas such as neighliorhood parks.
Special Facilities. A complete park system contains a number of special facil- ities. Among these are waterfront areas, swimming pools, outdoor theatres, and the like. Also frequently included as a special facility is the large recreational area or municipal stadium which is devoted almost exclusively to active games and sports. These athletic grounds or playfiekls have become particularly popular in
Photograph by Hugh E. Aikens
Coal Harbour and Wiiiconz'er Skv-linc from Staiilcx Park
recent years, and adecjuate areas must be reserved for their use and development. In many instances they can be located in the larger neighborhood park, or they may be included as a part of a large park.
The development of all the above facilities is entirely feasible in \'ancouver. especially if a number of the uses are combined within a single area.
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EXISTING RECREATIONAL FACILITIES
GROWTH OF PARK AREAS
The early citizens of X'ancouver petitioned the Domininn Government to set aside land now known as Stanley Park for the use of the people as a park and recreational area l)efore even the articles of incorporation were signed in 1886. The following year a block in a downtown district (Old Gamble Grounds) was retained for use as a playfield.
In 1888, the Gity Gouncil appointed the first Board uf Park Gommissioners, and entrusted to it the duty of providing for the recreational needs of \'ancouver's
Indian J olcin J'nics. Stanley Park
' ,4
ritotti^iapli by Leonaid Frank
citizens. .Ml through the intervening decades the Park I'xiard lias consistently endeavnrcd to |)rovide an adequate park system. I'rom the \ery small beginning in
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1887, tlie park system, under the successive Boards, has grown to 102 areas, com- prising 2,482 acres. Tliis includes the Admiralty Reserve of 188 acres on the north shore of Bvu^rard Inlet.
COMPARISON OF PARK AREAS IN \ANCOUVER WITH OTHER CITIES
A desirable overall standard of park area to population is one acre of park for every 100 persons. Vancouver is close to this desirable ratio, with 0.9 acres per 100 persons. A large portion of Vancouver's park acreage is found in Stanley Park, which alone contains about 1,000 acres. If this large tract were not a part of the system, Vancouver ratio of parks to population would ])e far below the desirable standard.
Table i
PARK AND RECREATIONAL AREAS IN \' ANCOUVER AND IN CITIES OF SIMILAR SIZE
Number of Park Area Acres of Park
y Parks In Acres per 100 Persons
A'ancouver 102 2482* 0.9
Montreal 140 1830 0.2
Toronto 100 2172 0.3
Winnipeg 45 1063 0.5
Hamilton 25 2500 1.5
Seattle 193 2878 0.9
Rochester 64 1937 0.6
Louisville 27 2130 0.7
Atlanta 84 1460* 0.5
Houston 62 3012 0.8
Data for United States Cities from "Municipal and County Parks in the U. S. — 1940". U. S.
Department of the Interior, National Park Service. Data for Canadian Cities obtained from each city. (1941 Census). * These figures include out-of-city acreage. (For \'ancouver — 188 acres).
Table Number i shows the park acreage and ratio to population in other large Canadian and American cities. Hamilton, Ontario, is the only Canadian city sur- passing \'ancouver. Other large cities such as Montreal and Toronto, are far below the X'ancouver standard.
It will also be noted that the park areas in \^ancouver compare very favorabh- with those of other American cities of similar size. Its ratio is about the same as Seattle's and much better than some of the southern cities, especially Atlanta. Because of the mild climate, A'ancouver's parks can be and are utilized a larger pro-
17
portion of the year than in most other cities. There are also available, within a short distance of Vancouver, many other recreational areas which can be enjoyed b\- the citizens. These include almost all varieties of sports, from skiing in the moun- tains to swimming at the beaches. There are also large amounts of unde\eloped land accessible by highways where the local citizens can escape the man-made environment of the city and thoroughly enjoy pleasant natural environment.
LOCATION OF RECREATIONAL AREAS
Plate Number 2 shows the location uf existing park and school areas within the City of A'ancouver. The plan also shows by dots the existing distribution of population.
Photograph by J. McGregor
"Winter" — l-ost Lagoon and Stanley Park
A substantial portion of the total park area in \"ancouver is represented by three areas. These are Stanley Park. Queen Elizalieth Park on Little Mountain, and Eraser Yiew Golf Course. Tliese three areas cimiprise about 1,347 acres, or more than half of the present system. They are. however, well distril)uted. and
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EXIST PARKS ^
LEGEM
EXISTING PARK AREAS EXISTING SCHOOLS
CLEMENTARY, JUNIOR 4. SENIOR
EXISTING SCHOOL SITES NOT
IMPROVED WITH SCHOOLS
HARUAND BABTHOLOMtW- fr ASSOCIATES TOWN PLANNE R5
ONe MILt
ISLAND
EACH DOT \
-| REPRESENTS SO
N [) . PERSONS OF THE
1941 POPULATION
Plate 2
occupy land wliich is well adapted for sucli use. The city is extremely fortunate in possessing these three tine park sites.
The city is also fortunate in having such a large amount of the waterfront under puhlic control. This is especially true of the frontages along English Bay and the shore around the University Endowment Lands in the extreme western part of the city. Ahout the only section of the city that does not contain adequate waterfront park land is in the southeastern section along the Eraser River. While considerahle development is needed in these waterfront areas, the fact tliat they are under puhlic control is of iiaraniount importance.
There are a large nuniher of smaller park areas, properly related to th.e i)opu- lation and which can be used as neighborhood parks. Few large cities ha\'e such a valual)le nucleus for a neighborhood park system. Many of these areas require
Photograph by Leonard Frank
Vista across Lost Lagoox. Stanlkv Park
"0! lure of the Lost Lagoon, —
/ dream tonight that my paddle blurs
The purple shade zi'here the scaivced stirs.
I hear the call of the singing firs
In the hush of the golden moon."
11. Pauline .lohnson's Poem
19
'The Lost Lagoon'
extensive improvements before they can provide adequate service, but again, the city is fortunate in possessing the land.
The majority of the neighborhood parks are found in the newer and outlving portions of the city. It is in the older sections, such as between the business section and Stanley Park, the area immediately south of False Creek, and the area east of the business district, that there is a pronounced deficiency of neighborhood park facilities and playground areas. Here practically all the land is now absorbed by some urban use. It will be extremely difficult to secure adequate neighborhood park areas, yet it is in these sections that they are especially needed. These areas are losing their desirability as residential sections, yet that is their most logical use, and recreational areas are needed to provide more satisfactory living conditions and I ipen space.
There is growing need for athletic fields, and the existing park svstem does not properly provide for these facilities. Improvements are needed in the future.
The Park Board also owns a number of small scattered undeveloped tracts throughout the city. Some of these are too close to existing park areas, some are too small to be developed into any logical use, and others are not properh- related to the population pattern. Such of these areas as are not needed in the comprehen- sive park and school plan should gradually be exchanged or sold so that thev can be put to a more logical use.
SCHOOLS
Plate Number 2 also shows the existing school grounds. Aianv of the earlier schools are located on totally inadequate sites, and some of them duplicate the facilities of surrounding schools. In the older portions of tlie city the school grounds are about the only available public open space. In such areas they must be properly utilized and enlarged wherever possible. A number of the newer school sites contain an area conforming to the desirable standard. The School Board also owns some sites not now improved, but several of them can become an import- ant part of the future system.
There are now a few instances of combined school grounds and neighborhood parks. The majority of these are in the western part of the city. The city already realizes the advantages of such combinations, and the policy should be expanded in the future.
SUMMARY
Vancouver is extremely fortunate in its existing large park facilities, especially the extensive waterfront properties. Some minor extensions of these waterfront areas are needed, but the major problem is one of redevelopment and further improvement.
Some excellent areas are available for neighborhood parks. The major prob- lems in connection with this type of park are: (i) additional improvements in
20
existing- areas, (2) acquisition and improvement of neigiiborhood parks in the older sections of the city, and (3) acquisition of some neighborhood parks in the undevel- oped sections of the city.
There is much need for additional athletic and play fields, either as separate areas or combined with other recreational facilities in the larger tracts.
Enlargement of some of the elementary school grounds is essential. There is a very difficult problem of providing junior and senior high schools with adequate sites. It is fortunate that the School Board owns a number of properties that can be utilized in the proposed system.
In brief, \'ancouver has made an excellent start upon acquiring and develop- ing an outstanding- park system.
21
PROPOSED PARK FACiLlTiES
Plate Number 3 shows the location and extent of the park areas that sliould eventually be a part of the recreational s\stem in X'ancouver. The plan shows by different legends areas that should be used as ( i ) large parks and waterfront areas, (2) neighborhood park facilities, and (3) proposed athletic and play fields. The Plate also shows the location of park areas that should be intensively improved with facilities for active games and sports, as well as with facilities that are of interest to all persons in the neighborhood. The location of other areas owned by the Park IJoard is also indicated.
In addition to the parks, the Plate shdws the pnibaljle future distribution of open spaces and recreational areas. Fortunately, a large part of the proposed sys- tem is already publicly owned.
The following is a brief discussion of the several areas that should comprise the proposed park s}stem. Recommendations are also made regarding the type of improvements necessary in several of the park sites.
rmi
Stanley Park front the air 22
R.C.A.F. Photograph
PROPOSED PARK FACILITIES VAN C OUVE R
BRITISH COLUMBIA
LEGEND
^EXISTING LARGE PABKS ^ WATERFKONT AREAS ^M PROPOSED LABGE PARKS ^ WATERFRONT AREAS ■■ EXISTING AREAS TO BE IMPROVED AS
NEIGHBOURHOOD PARKS. PROPOSED NEIGHBOURMOOD PARKS < EXTENSIONS EXISTING oe PROPOSED AREAS TO BE lAAPROVED AS
PLAYFIELDS «i PLAYFIELD FACILITIES TO BE DEVELOPED IN EXISTING OR PROPOSED NEIGHBOURHOOD PARKS COEXISTING PARK AREAS TO BE USED FOR SPECIAL <2,
PURPOSES OR MAINTAINED IN NATURALISTIC STATE- fi' -SOME THAT ARE UNIMPROVED MAY BE EXCHANGED ' FOR PROPOSED AREAS. f^Jr- SCENIC DRIVES =^ BOULEVARDS. ^- PARKWAYS.
HARLAND BARTHOLOMEW
6- ASSOCIATES TOWN PLANNING CONSULTANTS
OHe ufie
Plate
EXISTING LARGE PARKS AND WATERFRONT AREAS
I. Stanley Park
Stanley Park is one of the finest natural parks in the world, especially within
incorporated limits. Containing about 1,000 acres, it
is almost surrounded by water, and its closeness to the central business district is especially desirable. A large pro- portion of the park is retained in a naturalistic state, although it con- tains a large number of drives and recreational facilities. The latter in- clude tennis courts, rugby grounds, cricket pitches, a small pitch and putt golf course, picnic areas, and tidal swimming pools. It also contains a small zoo, flower gardens, bathing
Photograph l)y I^eonaid Frank
Stanley Park Pavilion and Park Board Offices
facilities, bowl.
and
a music
The greater portion of Stanley Park should be retained in its natural state. Some additional picnicking facilities will probably be desirable near the drives, and some clearing to provide f
views over the water from the drives would be beneficial. Eventually the zoo must be im- proved, and likewise the music bowl or outdoor theatre should be reloca- ted and enlarged. Ample parking facilities must be provided in connec- tion with this facility. A conservatory located near the present gardens would be a desirable addition to the park.
only enlarge-
The
ments suggested for this area are near the main
Pliotograph by Leonard Frank
Terraced Gardens train Slanley Park Pcii'ilion. The President Hardiny Memorial in hackc/roitnd.
23
R.C.A.F. ! _..,,„
I'i'.sii/lilly and disorderly cnlrancc to Staiilry Park alomj Gcorii'ia Street
Cual Harljijur and
entrance. Here sonic pri\ate property should be ac(|uired alonj, ^■..... ^.c. ,.-_.... „,,.. l)Oth sides of Georgia Street bet\\een the park and Denman Street. The present development in this area is so detrimental to such an attracti\e and valuable por- tion of the city that large expenditures would be justified to place it under public control. Eventually public control of the waterfront property should be extended to Xicola Street.
2. Alexandra Park AND English Bay Beach
These two areas are so closely allied with Stanley Park that it is somewhat difficult to disassociate them. Eng- lish Bay has always been one of the outstanding- bathing beaches in the citv.
Photograph by Tony Archer
Sunset Beach, south of Beach Ai'enne, west from Burrard Bridge Aciinisitii'H of iiftands for ttcerlo/'incKl as a /■nr^ is rcco>ninciidcd.
24
The Park Board has initiated a desirable
Photograpil by The Goweii Sutton Company Ltd.
Brockton Faint and H.M.C.S. "Discozrry" Xaz'al Traiuinq Reserve Dh'ision
difficult pieces to actjuire. the future.
prograniine of acquiring property in the Englisli Bay area, and this should be continued in the future. All of the prop- erty from Stanley Park to the Burrard Bridge between the water and Beach Avenue should eventually be under pub- lic ownership. Sunset Beach and the Crystal Pool property are now owned b}- the Board, "'"he present privately- owned i)roperty in this area is used for residen- tial purposes, and the large apartment near Stanley Park will prob- ably be one of the most Such acquisition should n^t. however, be impossible in
A separate study showing the suggested development of this area has been prepared — Plate Number 4. It would provide for improved bathing facilities, for some picnic and play opportunities, and the rest of the area will be attractively landscaped. It can become one of the nmst outstanding portions of the \'ancouver park system. Its prox- imity to the large apart- ment district west of the business district makes it especially desirable.
3. KiTsiLAxo Park
This is another fine bathing beach on the south side of English Bay. It is well located, accessible to transit facil- ities, and contains the largest outdoor salt- water swimming pool on the continent. Picnic facilities are also avail- able, as are some recrea- tional facilities. The park is well developed and
25
Photof^'rnph by Fred Austen
''Vista' — Stanley Park
Salticatcr Szi'iiin)iiii(i Pool and Kitsilano Beach
R.C.A.F. Pliotograph
Kitsilano Yacht Club Anchorage
maintained. The major chani^es needed are tlie provision of additional recreational facilities, especially softball diamonds, and additional picnicking facilities. In mak- ing these improvements care must be taken to preserve the naturalistic portions of the waterfront property.
4. Jericho Beach
This is a very small waterfront area, hut it has one of the finest sand beaches in the city. It is well located in relation to the population and to the other bathing' areas.
Because of the natural advantages of this tract and its excellent location, it should be enlarged by acquiring the foreshore property to the west abutting this fine beach. It is, therefore, recommended that a 200-foot strip, in front of the former Jericho Country Clubhouse grounds, to the west boundan- of the A\est part of D.L. 448, be ac(|uired. This small park should also be extended to the east along Point Grey Road by the ac(|uisition of the waterfront property to the west lioun-
26
Photograph, (."curtesy of V'ancoiiver Board of Park Commissioners
I'ista of Eiiqlisli Bay and Xorfh Shore Moiinfaiiis from KitsUano Pool
dary oi the Royal \'ancouver Yacht Club grounds. Tliis proposed land contains two large dwellings and the Tennis Club grounds and courts. These latter facili- ties could be utilized as a part of the park, and one of the existing residences might be used as a community house. The area will be more accessible when the new Point Grey Road — Fourth Avenue connectic)n is com])leted.
0-
Si'AxiSH Banks and Locarno Bathing Beaches
The city is extremely fortunate in possessing this large amount of water frontage and the driveway along it. A portion of the area, particularl}- the area north and east of the campus of the University of British Columbia, should be more intensively developed for public use. Beaches, bath houses or dressing facili- ties, improved concessions, picnicking areas, and parking areas are needed. A large amount of sand fill protected 1)v rock grovnes will be the first step in this improve- ment. Plans for this type of fill have previously been prepared for the Park Board.
27
A general plan for this enlarged area has also been prepared and is shown on Plate Number 5. It does not appear desirable to relocate the present drive because of the adjoining bluffs on the University Endowment Lands. Parking spaces must be provided so that cars can lie grouped and screened by planting in appropriate locations and not interfere whh the view over the bay along the entire drive.
Additional parking space is also needed near the Locarno Bathing Beach. Here the Park Board should exchange the block it now owns south of Belmont Avenue, or the new diagonal driveway when it is projected, for the block immediately to the north, and use the new area for parking. This latter block will be very access- ible after the proposed connection between Fourth Avenue and Marine Drive is completed. It would also serve the proposed pla^'field on the property nnw occupied by the Royal Canadian Air Force.
West and south of the L'niversity Endowment Lands the only improvement necessary along the waterfront property and drive is some additional clearing and the provision of additional pull-outs — parking areas where motorists can stop their cars and enjoy the views.
6. OuEEX Elizabeth Park
This area was formerly known as Little Mountain Park. It contains a water reservoir, some driveways, and an overlook, but most of the area is undeveloped. The park has a fortunate location from the standpoints of distribution and service, and the topography is desiralile. This park should be considered in connection with the Hillcrest Park immediately adjoining on the northeast. A plan of the develop- ment of the two areas prepared for the Park Board, is shown on Plate Number 6.
A large portion of Queen Elizabeth Park should be retained in a naturalistic condition. Facilities for driving, walking", and picnicking should predominate, although some play facilities should be provided for adults. Llillcrest Park should be developed as a complete athletic and play field, containing" facilities for baseball, soccer, swimming, and other active sports. Adequate parking facilities are also necessary. The area is well located to serve a large residential section, and should be an integral part of the city's system of athletic fields. It is recommended that Queen Elizabetli Park be extended southwesterly to include the presently undevel- oped property, to Cambie Street and 37th Avenue. This is made mainly on account of the fact that another large water reservoir is to be constructed south of the exist- ing one, which will probably necessitate the relocation of the driveway, and also properly round oft' the general park area.
7. Eraser Yi'ew Golf Course
This is a large tract, and the major development is an iS-hole public golf course. It was improved during tlie depression years and proved extremely popular until transportation difficulties resulted from the war.
It is recommended that this area continue to be used as a golf course, although some portions of the park now vacant may eventually be occupied with picnicking facilities. It is also recommended that a fresh water swimming pool be eventually
28
TOWN PLANNING COMMISSION PARC BOARD
SUGGESTED DEVELOPMENT OF THE
MAfllNE D RIV E
SPANISH BANt^S
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA
'^mV.,«i " c.vr '" • ,/„v.*^^ .-.."' Fjtr
A GENERAL PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF
QUEEN ELIZABETH PAKK
VANCOUVER. B.C.
29
Plate 6
developed in this area. Such a facihty will be needed to serve the southeastern part of the city. It does not appear feasible to carry out the recommendations in the
K.L .A.F. Photograph
Acrud I 'ic7^' of rancoiizrr — Frascr Ficw Golf Course in fornirotr.id
former report for developing- a bathing beach on the Fraser River near Alitchell Island. A number of new industries have since located along the river, and the bathers would encounter serious hazards to healtli and safety. The pool could be developed without interfering with the golf course. It should be accessible to major thoroughfares, and a possible location is the wide ravine north of Marine Drive.
8. PROPOSED LARGE PARKS AND WATERFRONT AREAS
The city now has an excellent system of large parks within the corporate limit-. and recommendations are made regarding only two additimial areas.
30
One recommendation is that the Musqueam Indian Reserve at the south side of Marine Drive near the western city Hmits be eventually acquired and developed as a large park. It is also recommended that the lower portion of the University Endowment Lands lying immediately north of Marine Drive and west of the cor- porate limits be acquired and made a part of this large park. The land north of Marine Drive might well be developed as a public golf course, which would afford e.xcellent distribution of such facilities within the city. It would be very costly to develop this land for residential use because of sewer problems.
The second proposal for waterfront areas is the acquisition of the property on the south side of Marine Drive between \^ictoria Drive and Kerr Street. This area should extend to the river except where the lower land is now, or should most logically be, absorbed by industrial development. Practically all of this propertv is steep and wooded, and \\ hile it contains a few scattered dwellings, it is not adaptable for residential use and would be better under public control. Excellent views of the
Photograpli by luny Archer
Causczvay, Enlraiicc lo Stanley Park
Eraser River and the flat lands to the south can be obtained from Marine Drive by judicious clearing. Some pull-out parking spaces should be provided, and there would also be opportunities for developing small picnic areas.
31
Metropolitan Parks. The rugged topography and the large bodies of water in the Vancouver region provide unusually fine opportunities for the development of large natural parks containing facilities for special sports. Burnaby Moun- tain in the adjoining municipality and the mountains lying on the north shore are examples. Thus, any additional large park facilities should be be\'ond rather than within the corporate limits. Since these areas would be of interest to all persons within the region, they should be acquired, developed, and maintained by a Metro- l)olitan Board, rather tlian by the Park Board of \'ancouver or anv other single citv. The local Board and citizens should co-operate in the establishment of a regional or metropolitan park agency.
Parkways, Scenic Drives and Boulevards
I'late Number 3 also shows the location of the proposed system of parkways, scenic dri\es and boulevards. It will be noted that the\' form a connected svstem of elongated parks.
These drives, commencing at Stanley Park, will skirt English Bav and continue around Point Grey and along the North Arm of the Eraser River to Burnab}-. There are four running north from the Eraser River and one cross-town drive along King Edward Avenue. There is also a shorter scenic drive along the south shore of Burrard Inlet east to liurnaby.
King Edward Avenue from the city's westerly limit to east of the Central P'ark line of the British Columbia Electric Railway, is recommended as a boulevard, 132 feet wide. East of Oak Street to Kingsway as an alternative to widening on both sides, it is suggested that the property (double frontage lots) between 24th Avenue and King Edward Avenue be acquired. Cambie Street, from Marine Drive to 29th Avenue, Nanaimo Street from ]\Iarine Drive to Wall Street and Boundary Road from Marine Drive to Burrard Inlet are also recommended for development as Ijoulevards.
The scenic drives and parkways recommended are along Beach Avenue and Pacific Street to Burrard Bridge and along the south shore of English Bay. The latter \\ould follow along Cornwall Street and Point Grey Road from Burrard Bridge to west of Alma Street and these streets should be widened to 100 feet. In the former report, it was rectimmended that the property on the north side of Point Gre\' Road from Trafalgar to Alma Streets be acquired, but since then many new homes have been erected and the cost of acrjuisition would now be excessive.
It is unfortunate that the waterfront scenic drive cannot be continued from Alma Street to Spanish Banks but due to the site of the Royal Canadian Air Eorce seaplane base at Jericho, the drive will have to be diverted along 4th Avenue to Imperial Street to the waterfront. The Marine Drive from Jericho around Point Grey and along the North Arm of the Eraser River will be an unusually fine pleasure drive, one which few cities could duplicate. It will afford magnificent views across the water to distant mountains and at ever}- turn there will be a new vista. After rounding Point Grey the mountain scenery will be replaced by pastoral scenes along
32
the Fraser Delta. Portions of these drives will have some of the characteristics of a normal city street but the right-of-way should eventually be widened and special attention should be given to planting and landscape treatment.
The parkways recommended are Camosun Street, from S.W. Alarine Drive to Sth Avenue and thence to connect with the scenic drive at 4tli Avenue, and Cambie Street, from 29th Avenue to False Creek. From 29th to King Edward Avenues. Cambie Street is 200 feet wide. It is recommended that from King Edward to i6th Avenues, Cambie Street be widened on the east side to approximately 206 feet by the acquisition of the tier of lots to the lane. North of i6th Avenue to False Creek it is recommended that a grand parkway l:;e developed between Cambie and Yukon Streets. This would not only provide an attractive drive near the centre of the city but it would also provide a fine setting for the City Hall which would be the only building retained.
Although A'ancouver has many beautiful parks and a variety of scenery, there is no special parkway feature of outstanding merit. Queen Elizabeth Park is unique owing to its elevation, and when ultimately developed as a spot from which a com- plete view of the city in every direction may be obtained, it will be of impressive importance. Tourists, whose time is limited will be able to proceed to this park, see the entire panorama of the cit}- and return to the downtown area in the space of a few minutes. This is an opportunity that very few cities, if any, could provide. This grand parkway as recommended would indeed be a splendid and fitting- approach to both the City Hall and Little Mountain. The cost, over a long term of years, would be repaid many times from the viewpoint of tourist attraction. To a great extent it was the provision of such parkways that made Paris a world's tourist centre. This type of parkway is needed to set off the city's natural beauty and sucli a development always not only enhances the city's scenic resources but increases the value of the surrounding properties.
It is also recommended that east of the Central Park line, the King Edw^ard Avenue boulevard be extended north and east into Burnaby as a parkway. The development should follow very closely the t}-pe exemplified in the Westchester Park- way out of Xew York City.
.\ great many of these routes now have generous rights-of-way but additional widths should be acquired on the remaining portions. This will permit extensive plantings along the sides of the parkway or drive and an appearance and character considerably different from the normal city streets will result.
Treatment of Boulev.\rds
The creation and maintenance of boulevards especially the necessary street trees along all t\-pes of streets are becoming more of a community than an individual responsibility. The continuing interest in boulevard trees, and the increasing num- ber of municipalities which are enacting by-laws governing the care and preserva- tion of street trees, is ample evidence as to this value to a community as a whole. The comfort and advantages to be derived froiu sliade trees has long been recog-
33
nized. The early settlers saved the fine native trees about their homes, on the village greens, along the country roads, and in the fields. As villages grew, the house- holders planted them adjoining their properties and the result has been the beautiful shaded streets which may be seen and admired in the older communities.
However, as the villages became cities the conditions for tall growth and the preservation of trees became less favourable, and the matured native trees became less dominant. In most cases they finally became badly mutilated or died and were usually replaced largely by less suitable trees listed in nursery catalogues. The quick growing trees were generally used as the\' made a large showing the first few years and were easily transplanted, l)ut they were spaced too closely and grew too large and became ragged and unkempt in appearance, especially if the}' were required to be severely pruned, often mutilated or destroyed, for utility wires.
The present hit and miss, haphazard system of planting should be replaced by a carefully considered boulevard policy. Success in planting street trees can be attained only by planning and controlling the planting as a whole, by selecting the most suitable varieties, by obtaining trees in the best condition and planting them properly, and by giving the necessary progressive care. The care of street trees ' needs to be vested in some adequate and experienced authority in order to have good shade trees at a reasonable cost and wliich receive timely and efficient attention, with eiifective control of wire lines.
The authority for the improvement and maintenance of streets should be divided between two public agencies. The city engineering department should have control of the design of the street cross-section and the construction and main- tenance of pavement, sidewalks and the boulevard lawns. Tiie Park Board should Iiave under its jurisdiction the choice of variety of shade trees, their spacing and maintenance ( supports while young, pruning and spraying). Nothing should be left to the individual householder but the maintenance of the boulevard lawn.
The climatic conditions in ^"ancouver are such that full advantage should be taken in the use of broad-leaf evergreen trees. Their liberal planting on boulevards would afford man}- pleasing contrasts and effects, especially during the occasional snow-covered periods, when other trees are reduced to winter bareness, as these ever- greens will brighten the landscape. The use of such broadleaf evergreens as will thrive on the West Coast would be a unique departure from the present prosaic types and would tend to accentuate the city's mild winter climate.
EXISTING NEIGHBOURHOOD PARK AREAS
The following is a brief discussion of the present and proposed facilities and suggested extension of existing neighbourhood ])arks:
9. West Point Grev Park
This park is near Oueen ]\lary School in West Point Grey on Trimble Street at Eighth Avenue. It contains Sj/ acres and a nunilier of recreational facilities. No additions are proposed except that the road between the school and park should
34
be vacated and added to tlie park development. The children's play area should be near the school. The existing facilities should be reorganized and expanded. Addi- tional landscaping and facilities for adult games are desirable.
10. Ux NAMED Site
At the southeast corner of Imperial Street and i6th A\enue is an area of 16.33 acres held by the School Board under lease from the Provincial Government. The east portion of this tract, consisting of 5 acres, contains the Queen Elizabeth School. The Park Board obtained the right to use the balance, but as yet it is undeveloped. This entire tract can be developed into an excellent school and neigh- bourhood park, but it will not be serioush- needed until additional residential development occurs in the surrounding area.
1 1. AIemorial West Park
This park was named as a memorial to the Point Grey soldiers who fell in World \\'ar I. It contains 18J.2 acres and a number of recreational facilities, such as a soccer field, running track, softball diamond, and tennis courts. The area is well located and of excellent size.
1-2. UxxAMED Site — Blenheim Street at 43RD Avenue
This undeveloped park contains slightly o\er 7 acres, and was donated bv W. H. ]\Ialkin. Esquire, the first mayor of the "newly amalgamated city (1929), for l)ark purposes. The area is well located to fit into the future system but is now too small. The only enlargement possible would be to acquire the property southwards to S.W. Marine Drive. If this is not possible, it is recommended that the present site remain undeveloped and that the area between Dunbar and Blenheim Streets and 44th Avenue and Marine Drive be acquired. This area is primarily vacant, and while the terrain slopes to the south, the play areas should be provided on terraces at a nominal cost, and a satisfactory park could be made available.
13. Carnarvon Park
This is an undeveloped level area of approximately 9^/2 acres. It is well adapted for recreational use. To tlie west is an area which will eventually contain a technical liigh school. Thus the neighborhood park and school ground will afford excellent facilities in this portion of the city.
14. ]\IcP5ride Park
This park comprises two separate blocks and slightly less than 5 acres. The surrounding area is almost completely developed, and no other park sites are avail- able. The present facilities should be continued and some planting provided around the boundaries.
15. Connaught Park
This park contains about 15 acres, and is used exclusively for games and sports. It lies just east of Kitsilano High School, and its facilities could be used Iiy the
35
pupils. Eventually it should contain more planting- and additional small game areas for the adults.
1 6. Unxamed Site
The area known as the Old Strathcona Gardens has recently been acquired. It is bounded on the nortli by the grounds of the Point Grey Junior High School and on the south by the lane in the rear of the property zoned as "Commercial" facing 41st Avenue. The remaining area between this lane and 41st Avenue should eventu- ally be acquired.
The facilities for active games should be located in the northern portion of this area near the school. Tennis courts, game areas for adults, and landscaped portions should be developed in the southern portion.
17. ]\Iaple Grove Park
This site contains nearly 1 1 acres. It has some play facilities, picnic areas, and a considerable portion is wooded. Additional play facilities are needed even though clearing would be required. Also the .small amount of private prop- erty on the north side of Marine Drive should be acquired and added to the park.
18. Oak Park Until recently this park contained
only 6^ acres, and while it is verv
popular, it was much too small. The
balance of the block, containing 6.35 acres, has just been acquired. The total block
can be developed into an excellent neighborhood park. Play facilities can be located
in the southern portion. The site is well related to a large population which it will
serve.
Maple Grove Park — JJ'adiiig Pool
19. Winona Park
This is an undeveloped area of about iiji acres, situated between Yukon and Columbia Streets and 5(;th and 62nd Avenues, about three blocks north of S. W. Marine Drive. It is another splendid site for a neighborhood park, and should be developed as such when the surrounding lands contain more population.
20. Douglas Park
This Park contains appro.ximately 13^4 acres, and is one of the most attrac- tively planted sites in tire city. It contains three rugby fields, a cricket pitch, and tliree Softball diamonds, and has a good field house. It is well located to serve a well developed area including Shaughnessy Heights. Some additional facilities for adults should be provided.
36
21. Oppenheimer Park
This is one of tlie oldest parks in the city, and consists of one city block bounded by Powell and Cordo^■a Streets and Jackson and Dunlevv Avenues. It is frequently referred to as the Powell Street Grounds. It contains a soccer field and a baseball diamond with bleachers seating 900 spectators. Although small in area, it is recommended that it l)e intensively dcAeloped as a neighborhood park. With the exception of AlacLean Park, there is no other available land in this East End which can be utilized for recreational use. It needs more planting and more facili- ties for adult use.
22. MacLe.\x Park
This is one of the original sites acquired for park purposes in 1902, and the first supervised children's playground in the city was established here in 191 1. It has a wading pool as well as the usual playground apparatus.
This park is in the same category witli respect to size and location as Oppen- heimer Park. It is recommended that it also be developed as a neighborhood park, but here facilities for children's use should predominate.
23. RoBsox Park
This park contains 4^/4 acres, and is almost completely absorbed by a soccer field. Softball diamonds, tennis courts, and a supervised children's playground. Recreational areas are badly needed in this section of the city, and the block north to 1 2th Avenue should be acquired. 13th Avenue is dead-ended at St. George Street which will facilitate its closing. Consideration should also be given to acquir- ing additional land to the east.
24. Prince Edward Park
Containing but 33^ acres, this park is compactly developed with a soccer field, a Softball diamond, two asphalt tennis courts, play equipment, and a small field- house. Although the park is small, it is important to the thickly populated district \\hich it serves, and any extension or enlargement would be difficult. This park, together with enlarged school grounds, can provide fairly satisfactory recreational facilities in this older section of the citv.
25. Sunset Nurseries
This area of la^/^ acres has been used as a nursery for the propagation of bed- ding plants, shrubs, and trees for the city's parks and boulevards. A neighborhood park is needed in the general section. However, the land is well suited for the growing of plants, and since this will probably be a continuing function of the Park Roard, the nursery activities could be restricted to the western portion of the tract. The eastern part, together with additional property east of Prince Edward Street, could be developed as a neighborhood park. The area proposed for acquisition is practically vacant and well situated for park use. Prince Edward Street should be vacated between 51st and 53rd Avenues.
37
26. Memorial South Park
This 33/^ acre tract contains excellent facilities, and is an unusually fine neigh- borhood park. Some additional play facilities, including a swimming pool eventually should be provided so that it can serve as an athletic or play field for a large resi- dential section. As funds and opportunities permit, the private property on the north side of 45th Avenue should be acquired and added to the park.
27. Union Park (Name later changed to Kensington)
This is an undeveloped park containing about 16 acres. The terrain has a con- siderable slope at one corner, but otherwise the area is well adapted for use as a neighbourhood park.
28. Gray Park
This is a small area of approximately 4 acres, and contains a ballground, a wading pool, and a lawn bowling green and clubhouse. The north portion, recently acquired, is undeveloped. It is recommended that Durward Avenue be closed and the tract improved with additional neighbourhood park facilities. Although small, it would give considerable service, and it is difficult to acquire large areas that would serve the residential district lying to the north. Quarters for a caretaker can be provided in one of the acquired dwellings.
29. Glen Park
This small park contains 2^3 acres. It is well planted, and has two asphalt tennis courts and some children's play equipment. While small, it is important to the nearby residents, and larger tracts are difficult to acquire because of the intensive development in this section. It is recommended that the small block to the south be acquired to accommodate additional park facilities, and that the intervening street lie vacated.
30. SuNNYSiDE Park
This park of just less than 2^^ acres contains plantings, tennis courts, and a small amount of playground equipment. Here, again, park facilities are seriously needed, yet it is difiicult to acquire any large site. It is recommended that the block west to Windsor Street be acquired and that the two blocks be de\eloped as a neighbourhood park. This block is at present occupied by the Charles Dickens School, which is recommended for eventual abandonment. The intervening street should be vacated.
31. Grandview Park
This block contains slightly less than 2i.< acres. It is owned by the Dominion Government and is held under licence for use by the Park Board. It has some lawns and landscaping, three asphalt tennis courts, and a supervised children's playground. This park is popular and useful to the well populated Grandview dis- trict. It should be enlarged by acquiring the block to the west and vacating the
mtervenmg street.
38
^
A GENERAL PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF
JOHN HENDRY PARK
VANCOUVER. BC.
HARLAND BARTHOLOMEW fr ASSOCIATES TOWN PLANNERS
TOWN PLANNING COMMISSION PARK BOARD
39
2)2. Woodland Park
This small 1 3/|-acre park contains a soccer field and a softball diamond. The surrounding area is heavily populated and needs additional park facilities. It is recommended that the lilock to the south be acquired and developed. Since Georgia Street is not proposed as a major thoroughfare in this section, it should be closed between MacLean and Woodland Drives and its area utilized in the park.
33. Pandora Park
Occupying two cit}- blocks, this park contains 3^ acres. The east block is a supervised children's playground, and the west block is laid out as an ornamental area with two asphalt tennis courts. A large building is used as a Home for the Blind. Since a new Home for the Blind should be erected elsewhere, Garden Drive should be \'acated where it bisects the park and the two blocks be redeveloped with recreational facilities.
34. Templeton Park
This park also comprises two blocks — about 4^4 acres. Georgia Street bisects the property, and should be vacated. This park is opposite the Templeton High School, and since it is almost impossible to acquire adequate playfield facilities for the school, a portion of the park area should be utilized for such purposes. Some space should also be used for lawns, planting, and adult games. There is no appar- ent reason why Templeton Drive could not be vacated where it separates the different parts of this site.
2i},. Clinton Park
This two-block park bisected by Graveley Street, contains 4I;! acres. The northern block has a rugby and soccer field \vith softball diamond, two tennis courts, and a small field-house. The southern block has not been developed. Gravele^• Street should be closed, thus increasing the park area, and the southern portion should be improved with planting and facilities for the more passive forms of recreation.
36. Garden Park
This park contains less than 2V2 acres, but is fairly well developed. While close to Clinton Park, it serves a district that would otherwise be considerably removed from park facilities. The small block to the north and the lilock to the south should be acquired and the intervening streets vacated.
2,7. John Hendry Park
This area of about 44 acres surrounds Trout Lake for which the park was formerly named. The lake is popular both for winter skating and summer batli- ing. Except for a beach at the south end, the shores are somewhat swampy.
This area has fine possibilities for a complete neighborhood park. A separate plan has been prepared showing proposed future development — Plate Number 7^ The private properties on the park side of the boundary streets should be gradually acquired and added to the park as suggested on the plan.
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38. Gordon Park
This park contains 1654 acres and is undeveloped except for a football field near 49th Avenue. The area is adequate, adaptable, and well located for a fine neighbourhood park. Improvements should be made as the surrounding- area becomes more thickly populated.
3(). Chajniplaix Park
This is a small undeveloped area containing' 4':. acres. While it should be improved with neighbourhoocl park facilities, no extensions are recommended because of its proximity to other parks.
40. KiLLARXEv Park
This large area, containing 32 acres, is generally level and is admiraljly suit- able for park purposes. It is still undeveloped except for a I)allground at the south- east corner. The School Board has a schr)ol site reserved at the southwest corner.
The size, location, and topography of this park makes it extremely well suited for development as a neighbourhood park with pla}'field facilities that will be similar in character to ]\Iemorial Park South. It is especially important that adequate facihties for active games and competitive sports be provided. However, the pixrk is so large that ample space will still be available for landscaping and informal development.
41. Renfrew Park
This park comprises 4 acres at the south end of a large unsubdivided block. The portion now used as a park contains two tennis courts, a children's playground, and a community hall. The block also contains an auto camp, and the remaining undeveloped portions are reserved for school and park purposes.
As much as possible of the entire block should be developed as an neighbour- hood park. The stream, which meanders over the tract in such a manner that precludes the block's full development, should have its course altered or be confined to suitable conduits, w^here practical, in order to retain as much play area as possible. Where retained, the stream should receive naturalistic treatment.
]Much of the existing facilities can be retained. While the playfield facilities will be somewhat limited because of the stream, they can be supplemented by the facilities in nearby Renfre\\- Plavfield which should be retained and further improved by the Park Board.
42. ^^'l^•DERMERE Park (name later changed to Sunrise)
This area is only partiallv developed, and contains over 734 acres. There is a pronounced slope in the northeastern portion, but the existing level area, together with some terracing, should provide ample space for active recreation. The slopes should be heavily planted.
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43 Cariboo Park
This is an undeveloped low and flat area near tlie railroad. Since it is so close to Windermere Park the two sites can provide very adecjuate service in this section of the city. There is not now sufficient population to warrant extensive improve- ments in the tract. As it is practically surrounded by an industrial district, it could he exchanged for a more suitable area if a favourable opportunity should arise.
44. Hastings Community Park
This long- narrow park lies between Hastings and Pender Streets. The terrain is rolling, having two high points and two depressions in the four blocks. The area is now well utilized and no extensive improvements are necessary, although a chil- dren's playground may be needed in the future. The only use that can logically be made of the most easterly block is for planting and passive recreation. Otherwise this block might well be abandoned.
PROPOSED NEIGHBOURHOOD PARKS
45. Trafalgar Park (New Site)
In the large unsubdivided tract in the valley between Trafalgar and Arbutus Streets, a 454 -acre area, lying just east of the former street, has been set aside for park purposes. A substantial portion of this large tract is to be subdivided in the near future. The School Board desires a site for an elementary school in this dis- trict, and the Park Board wishes a larger site and will abandon the present area. The two Boards have agreed upon a consolidated site of irregular shape of approxi- mately 17 acres, lying east of Trafalgar Street and between 23rd and 26th Avenues.
The site is level and will make an excellent school and neighborhood park. Some playfield facilities should be provided to serve this general section of the city. Eventually the area now occupied as a greenhouse and nurser}- should be acquired and added to the site.
46. Site Near Granville Street and 54TH Avenue
There is a decided need for a park and elementary school in this district, and the proposed site comprises the only available vacant property of any size. The vacant property should be acquired at an early date, and if the large residence at the southeast corner of the block is ever abandoned it should also be acquired by the Park or School Board. The site, together with the elementary school, will make an excellent neighbourhood facility in an area that has been rapidly growing.
47. Site in Vicinity of Oak Street and 43RD Avenue
The School Board has acquired a site of undeveloped land containing over 15 acres between Selkirk Street and the lane west of Oak Street south of 43rd Avenue. The School Board plans to utilize the westerly 5 acres for an elementary school, and to transfer the balance to the Park Board for park purposes. This will provide an excellent neighbourhood recreational facility, and the Park Board should acquire the Oak Street frontage.
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48. Site Adjoining King Edward and Alexandra Street
The present block is owned In- the School Board, and the Prince of Wales elementary and high school is located thereon. In the School Section of this report it is recommended that high school activities be located elsewhere. A part of the grounds should then be used by the Park Board for develo])ment as a neighbourhood ])ark.
40. Site at Maple and i2th Avenue
This block is immediately south of the Lord Tennyson Elementary School. There is so much poinilation in this section that additional recreational facilities are badly needed. While the proposed site is now occupied by residences, no better sites are available, especially because of the possibilities of combining the school and park facilities in a single area. The larger playfield facilities needed to serve this section of the city can be located at Connaught Park.
50. Site at Alder and i2tii Avenue
These two city blocks are situated north of the Cecil Rhodes elementary school. This is one of the older sections of the city, is intensively developed, and lacks adequate recreational facilities. There is much local interest in acquiring by lease or purchase several scattered lots for use as children's playgrounds. These might give temporary relief, but they will never give satisfactory service, and the major expenditures should l)e concentrated upon a single but larger and usable tract.
51. Site at Bute and Nelson Streets
Except for Stanley Park the West End contains few play facilities. This is now the most densely populated portion of the city, and additional apartment develop- ment can be expected. Additional open space is needed to accommodate recreational activities and to assist in maintaining property values.
The proposed site would accommodate botli school and park facilities. The tract suggested is fairly level and could be intensively developed. It contains only three apartment buildings. One of these is now over 30 years old and might be acquired at a later date. Another is a modern two-storey apartment (about 12 years old), and the third is a large old frame apartment or lodging house OAcr 30 years old. W'^hile land costs mav be high, the improvements are essential.
52. Site at Ontario and 5T'h Avenue
This district is quite densely populated, and while much industrial development has located in the northern portion, park facilities are seriously needed. The above described block is the best situated in relation to other parks and to the Simon Eraser School Annex, but it is on a steep slope and has expensive impro\ enients. The block to the west, to Manitoba Street, is another possibility, as it would be less costly and equally satisfactory for park purposes.
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53- Site at Columbia Street and 13TH Avenue
While this tract is improved with dwellings, it is seriously needed to serve a large and well populated district that is entirely removed from any existing park or recreational facilities. When the tract is developed the intervening street should be vacated.
54. Site at Alberta and 42ND Avenue (near Van Home School)
The acquisition of a two or three-block tract in the vicinity of the Sir William Van Home School is very desirable. It should be in as close proximity as possible to the school. There is a substantial amount of "bush-land", practically level, but with sufficient slope for good drainage, west of Columbia Street and south of 42nd Avenue which would be eminently suitable. It should be acquired at an early date although its actual park development can be undertaken later. The intervening street or streets should be closed.
55. Site at Prince Albert Street and 59TH Avenue
This tract is now vacant and lies immediately west of the Walter Aloberly School. The school and park would make a fine recreational centre for the surround- ing community. As this site is improved, the present Moberly Park, lying just to the northeast, could be sold for subdivision purposes.
=^6. Site at Nanaimo Street and 59TH Avenue
This tract lies a short distance east of the Sir James Douglas School. In the School Section of this report it is recommended that the balance of the scliool grounds be extended eastward to Gladstone Street. This will afford a combined school and park development. The proposed site is well adapted for use as a neigh- bourhood park, and can accommodate facilities for both active and passive recre- ation.
57. Nanaimo Park
This is an existing park which should be enlarged. The subdivided lots on the south side of 46th Avenue between Nanainm and Elliott Streets should be acquired and the park land extended soutli to Waverley Street. A direct connection should 1 e made from Waverley Street at Nanaimo Street to the same street at Elliott Street, tlicreby eliminating a jog. The area of the new park will be aljout twice the present area, and adequate facilities can be provided. One of the dwellings on 46th Avenue slinuld be retained as a caretaker's dwelling.
58. Site in Extreme Southeastern Part of Citv
There are now three undeveloped park areas in the extreme southeastern por- tion of the city. These are Cromwell, Marlborough and Minto Parks. However, none of these is properly located to provide satisfactory service in the future. Since this section of the city is practically undeveloped and should be replotted, it is recommended t!\-it a new park site of about 15 acres he selected during the
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replotting in the approximate location show n on tlie plan, and that tlie present sites be subdivided. Champlain Park on Doman Street, between 57th and 59th Avenues could also be included.
59. Site at Slocax Strekt and 2(jth Avenue
This section of the city is not now properly ecjuipped with recreational facili- ties. It is recommended that a new site be acquired, as shown on the plan, and improved with neighlxnu'liood park facilities. The area lies immediately north of the Xor(|uay School, and the two sites could be combined.
60. Site at Price Road and Rupert Street
Carleton Park is located in this general section. However, the site is small and the siu'rounding" terrain is so rough that it cannot logically be enlarged. It is recom- mended that the park be eventually abandoned and that a new site be accjuired adjoining the Xorquay School Annex. This elementary school is recommended for eventual abandonment, and the school site could then become a part of the park.
61. Site at Cariboo axd Triumph Streets
This general section of the citv is in serious need of additional recreational facilities. The proposed location is immediately north of the Franklin School, and the two areas can be developed with neighbourhood facilities. The intervening street should be vacated.
Sites in University Lands
The Plate also shows approximate locations for neighbottrhood park improve- ments in the University Lands immediately west of the city. These locations are coordinated with the park sites in the citv and should be reserved in any develop- ment plan for this large tract.
PROPOSED ATHLETIC AND PLAYFIELDS
Areas containing extensi\e facilities for active games and competitive sports are seriously needed in \"ancouver. These should accommodate baseball, rugby, and other competitive games of organized teams. Facilities for non-scheduled play and for spectators are also essential.
Locations for the development of some of these facilities have been discussed in previous sections, such as the improvements proposed in Killarney and Memorial Park South. The following discussions include additional sites that should be developed almost exclusively with playfield facilities. These areas are shown by a separate indication on the plan. All sections of the city would be within reason- alile distance of these proposed improvements.
62. Site at Jericho
This site lies just east of Locarno Park and Beach, and includes the present j'layfield of the Royal Canadian Air Force. The site is unusually well adapted for
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])lavht'l(l iisf. The area is lnw and level, and could easily be developed with extensive facilities. Its proximity to Locarno Park and Beach would result in a waterfront development that would be of interest to all persons. The site should be acquired as soon as possible after the end of the war and improved at an early date. The proposed parkino- facilities were discussed in cnnnection with Locarno Bathing' Beach. Additional parking' facilities might be included in the new site. At least 30 acres should be acquired for playfield purposes.
63. KiTsiLANO Indian Reserve
The acquisition and disposition of the Kitsilano Indian Reserve Lands has been a moot question for many years. As the name implies, it was the home of Squamish Indians until the city grew to metropolitan proportions and they were
Photograpli by Tony Archer
Kitsilano I.\dian Reserve, southwest i-rom Bukkard Bridge Recomtncnded for acquisition and development as one of Vancouver's principal parks.
evacuated. It is still controlled by the Federal Department of Indian Afifairs although a few years ago the Provincial government acquired a financial interest in it to the extent of some $350,000.
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It has been the subject of much controversial discussion over a long period of years but the general consensus of opinion is that it should be acquired by the city and developed for tlie enjo\Tiient of its citizens and visitors.
A full report upon the Reserve was given in the Commission's 1930 Report and it was recommended then that it be acquired for park purposes. At that time the area was trisected by the right-of-way of the British Columbia Electric Rail- way (owned by the Canadian Pacific Railway Company). The railway bisected the Reser\-e into north and south halves and the south half was cut in two by a railway line running south. In 1930 the Commission recommended that the north portion be zoned the same as the land to the west, namely a Two-Famil}- Dwelling District, and the two parts of the south portion, a Three-Storey ^Multiple Dwelling District, also the same as the area lying to the west. The City Council approvecl of these classifications and they have stood thus since, except for a comparatively minor amendment.
However, since IQ30 great changes have taken place. The city acquired the rights-of-way for the new Burrard Bridge, and its approaches, which was opened in 1932. These new rights-of-way subdivided tlie Reserve into several more parcels but in the main, the large area northwest of the bridge is but very little smaller than the original area north of the railway.
The area northwest of the bridge contains approximately 35/^ acres of uplands and from 6 to 7 acres of "niade" land on the north foreshore. On the east shore there is a 1 4 acre triangular parcel between the bridge and raihva}'. Abutting Chestnut Street, between the bridge and the raihva}' there is a triangular parcel of about 2% acres. Also abutting Chestnut Street, south of Cornwall Street to First Avenue and cast to Burrard Street, an area of 1.83 acres has been acquired by the city. The southeasterly poi'tion of 9.1 acres, is bounded by the railway, False Creek and First Avenue. There is a 60-foot road allowance along the railwa}", from First Avenue to False Creek, containing 2.1 acres. The triangular parcel bounded by Burrard Street, First Avenue and the railway, and containing 12.35 acres, has been further ■subdivided. A rectangular parcel at the northeast corner of Burrard Street and First A\enue and containing approximately 4 acres, has been acquired for the Seaforth .\rmouries and parade ground. The zoning classification of this site was changed from a Three-storey ^lultiple Dwelling District to a Three-storey Commercial Dis- trict.
The construction of the bridge and this further subdivision altered the status of the Reserve considerably. Although nothing has been done relative to amending the zoning classifications to more logically meet the new conditions, the Commission has been of the opinion that all the Reserve property northwest of Burrard Bridge should be acquired for park purposes and the portions southeast should be changed in zoning classification to an Industrial District.
The compelling and universal urge upon the part of l)oth the ci\ic authorities and citizens to acquire the Reserve lands for park purposes liecame manifest after Burrard Bridge was opened. A special City Council Committee was appointed to
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enter into negotiations with the Department of Indian Affairs and the Provincial Government toward the procurement of the Reserve for the citizens of A'ancouver.
The matter was finally left in the hands of a Civic Committee and a plan was worked out and discussed with the Provincial Government and with the Depart- ment of Indian Affairs. Under this plan the province was to quit claim to the Dominion in the right of the Department of Indian Affairs, all of the Reserve east of the bridge, and in turn the latter was to deed to the province all the lands north- west of the bridge; the province in turn, to lease this portion to the city at one dollar per year. The city was to agree to change the zoning classification of the land east of the bridge to an Industrial District, and further, was to agree to consider this latter property as "Crown Lands" carrying with it a remission of city taxes. The province was to grant the foreshore rights on False Creek, east of the bridge, to the Department of Indian Affairs. Tentative arrangements at that time had been made that a local syndicate should interest itself in taking over the property east of the bridge for commercial uses and pay a mutually agreed rental to the Department of Indian Affairs calculated to yield the Indians more money annually than the interest they would receive on the lx)nded investment of tlie capital sale value of the whole Reserve.
This seemed to be a very satisfactory settlement of a very involved situation which surrounded this Reserve for a great many years. However, just liefore World War II broke, the file of correspondence lietween the Park Board Chairman and and the Department of Indian Affairs was inadvertantly forwarded prematurelv to the local Indian Agent, who submitted it to the Squamish Council, and without the possibility of explanation by the \'ancouver Committee, the proposal was rejected by the Indian Council.
In the subsequent exigencies of War, the Royal Canadian Air Force took over this property for its stores of material. The City Council consented to this use in a Two-Family Dwelling District, as its use was to be of a temporary nature, and although the Department of National Defence for Air erected concrete warehouses, it was agreed that within a reasonable time after the cessation of hostilities, the buildings would be demolished and the land would revert to its status before it was taken over for defence purposes.
This is the most important site to be acquired for park purposes and no effort should be spared to this end. It is recommended that this property be developed as a playfield. the chief central feature of which should lie a civic stadium. \'ancouver badly requires a stadium and this site is considered to l)e the best procurable having in mind the many factors to be considered in making a choice. There are an abundance of streets available to take care of the traffic that would be involved in any sport event. Although the site is on the south side of False Creek, it has a good balance between the dense, concentrated ])opulation of the downtown and the West End areas to the north and the large areas to the west, south and east that are less congested. The area is sufficiently large to accommodate the parking of a large number of motor cars if it is properly designed and efficientiv supervised.
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A stadium sliuuld be designed not only to serve a very large number of spec- tators but also so that it could be erected in sections as conditions warranted and funds w ere available.
The small 2i^-acre parcel on Chestnut Street between the bridge and the rail- way should also he obtained as it will be required in the general scheme of development of the larger portion to the north. Chestnut Street will require widen- ing- from First A\enue north and it should be underpassed below Corn\\all Street in the development.
64. HiLLCREST Park
, The improvement of this area as a large playtield serving the central portion of the city has already been discussed and a plan of the proposed development is shown on Plate Number 6. It is extremely well located and adaptable for such use.
65. Site at Oak Park
Playfield facilities are also needed in the well populated central southern portion of the city. The Marpole district has practically no playfield facilities whatsoever.
]t has been recommended that Oak Park be impro\ed with neighbourhood park facilities, and in the School Section of the report a high school is proposed in the area between 54th and 57th Avenues east of Oak Street. It is recommended that the property between 57th and 59th Avenues be acquired by the Park Board and extensively improved with playfield facilities, including a swimming pool, to serve the entire Marpole district. This playfield, togetlier with Oak Park on the south and the high school on the north, would provide an outstanding educational and recreational area.
66. Site ox the False Creek Fill
In i<j3<j the city accjuired a tract of about 39 acres from Great Northern Rail- Avay Company interests. About 100,000 cubic yards of earth fill has been placed in this section. Although the area is near industrial facilities, the site is extremely well suited for use as a playfield. There is a large population to the north and east now inadequately served with recreational facilities, and this development will be especially useful to this district. The small block bounded by Prior and Atlantic Streets, and Hawks and Campbell Avenues, should be acquired and added to the tract.
Playfield facilities can be improved on the low-lying level land, and the area in the northwest part near Prior Street and Heatlev Avenue can be improved with some landscaping, tennis courts, and the like. This entire tract should be utilized for park and pla_\ground ])urposes, and no other large nnuiicipal uses should encroach thereon. When this railway property was acquired, the ahgnment of the Georgia- Charles Streets connectinn was moved southerly from the original proposed location
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to utilize the portion along the south boundary. A strip of land between this south boundary and the new location of the connection, approximately 175 feet in depth, was also set aside for industrial purposes.
67. Site at Adaxac Street and Boundary Road
In the School Section of this report it is recommended that a new high school be located on the property along Cassiar Street on the property now occupied by the Girls' Industrial School. The eastern portion of this tract should then be acquired by the Park Board and developed as a playlield. Such facilities would not only serve the school, but also the entire northeastern portion of the city. A play- field developed on the present Exhibition Grounds would be better related to the surrounding residential district, but the topography is quite rough and there is doubt as to whether the areas could be acquired for such use. Thus, the proposed site on the Girls' Industrial School tract is the best sdlutiDU for this section of the city.
SUGGESTED TREATMENT OF PARKS NOT INCLUDED IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD PARK SYSTE^I
The improvements necessary to provide adequate facilities for both active and passive recreation should be concentrated in the above described parks. This will not only insure better service, but should provide for maximum efficiency in operating and maintenance cost.
The Park Board, however, owns a number of additional areas that are not included in the above system. Some of these were not included because the}' were too close to pai"ks better located and more adaptable as neighbourhood areas. Some have rugged topograph}- and would be expensive to improve. Others are so small that they could contain few facilities, and it would be difficult to enlarge them.
A numl)er of the additional areas now contain improvements and can be used to supplement the proposed neighbourhood park system. The}^ should not, however, be as intensively improved as the neighbourhood parks, and their use would be unsupervised and undirected. Others can be used for special purposes, such as lawn bowling clubs, that are primarily enjoyed by the surrounding neighbourhood. A few of the areas could be improved with lawns and planting. These sliould contain no recreational facilities and would merely be open spaces in the neighbourhoods. A number of them are better adapted for pri^■ate development and should be dis- posed of b}- the Park Board.
The following is a suggested use of tlie more important areas:
EXISTING AREAS WHICH SHOULD BE RETAINED BY THE PARK BOARD
Almond: This 3^-acre park is an outstanding example of what can be done to beautify an otherwise useless and unsightly hillside which was created bv the
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construction of the Alma Street diversion l^etween 12th and 14th Avenues. The level portion has been provided witli play equipment for small children and space has been reserved for a bowling green.
Angus: This small park should be retained as an ornamental area in Angus Drive.
Balaclava: This area is too near Memorial Park West and the proposed site at Trafalgar Street and 25th Avenue to be developed as a complete neighbourhood park. The present facilities can continue to be used to supplement the facilities in the two neighbourhood parks.
Braemar: Although it is used for soccer and softball and has a caretaker's cottage this park is too small and is too near Douglas Park to be developed as a neighbourhood park. It should be retained to serve the immediate residents as it now does.
Brewer: This site is too near John Hendry Park to be enlarged and developed as a complete neighbourhood area. It could be retained as an open play space, with some planting, which can be used by the immediately sui'rounding neighbourhood.
BuRRARD \'^iEw: This should be retained because of the view of Burrard Inlet and to supplement the neighbourhood park facilities in the northeastern portion of the city.
Chaldecott: Much of this area is wooded and can be retained in its present state. The children's playfield can be continued, but should not be a part of the supervised s}-stem.
Clark: In accordance with present day standards as to park spacing, this park is too close to the John Hendry Park. However, as the main portion of it is one of the earliest park gifts to the city, having been donated by the late E. J. Clark, and since it is now a sizeable area and contains some play facilities, its present use should be continued. If the few individual lots at the west end are readily avail- able, they should be incorporated in the park area.
CoLLiNGWoou: The plav facilities in this 33-2-acre park should be retained to serve the surrounding' district.
't>
Delta \''iew : With the development of Cambie Street as a 150-foot boulevard, this small park will form a fitting entrance to it from Marine Drive.
Dexmax: This half-block, equipped with children's play ai)paratu8 and four tennis courts, is leased from the ScJiool Board. As it is situated in the thickly popu- lated West End, it is verv well patronized and it should be cimtinucd with its present facilities.
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Devonshire: Consisting of a 4-acre block in the Shaughnessy Heights district east of Granville Street, this has been beautifully developed as an ornamental park. This valuable asset to the neighbouring residences should be retained.
Granville: The area of this park was recently enlarged to include the entire block. It is situated in an intensively residential district which recjuires all the play space that can be afforded.
Grimmett: This small area can continue for a special use such as an indoor bowling club.
Jones (name later changed to Tecumseh): This 36-acre tract, the result of poor subdivision can be used only for park purposes. It is situated west of A'ictoria Street between 37th and 38th Avenues. As it lies in the interior of the block it is well adapted for development as a children's play area.
Kerrisdale: This area should also be devoted to special uses, such as lawn bowling and tlie like. It would be of primar}- service to the immediately surround- ing neighbourhood.
Larwill (formerly Cambie Street Grounds) : This is another area that is in a rather congested district and can be continued for special recreational uses.
MacDonald: Located in the old South Vancouver area, east of Alain Street on 49th Avenue, this park has been developed mainly ornamentally but has three tennis courts. In the 1930 Report it was cited as an example of how the establish- ment of a park in a residential district enhanced the value of the surrounding" prop- erty. It is not sufficiently large for development as a neighbourhood park, but it should be operated for local use.
Marpole: This small park should be retained for its historical and ornamental value. It is the site of the great Fraser Midden, used as a burial ground of the Alusqueam Indian tribe. The Historic Sites and Alonuments Board of Canada has erected a cairn bearing an interesting inscription.
Musqueam: This undeveloped 24^-acre tract is located at the southwest por- tion of the city. It is poorly situated for use as a neighbourhood park but it should be retained and incorporated with its larger neighliour. the Musquean Indian Reserve, when it is acquired as recommended.
New Brighton : This unique 5-acre waterfront park is situated on Burrard Inlet at the foot of Windermere Street. There is considerable historical significance attached to this site. At one time it was the tide-water terminus of Douglas Road from New \\'estminster and was known as "New Brighton". It has been developed as a picnic and play area with a fine salt-water swimming pool and free bath-house facilities, and it is extremely well patronized. The land area is under lease only and it is recommended that this property be acquired as early as i)ossil)le If the water-
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front property to the east to\yard tlie grain elevator were acquired, it would be a very valuable acquisition to this park. It provides the only waterfront recreation facilities in the very large Hastings Townsite district.
Xorouay: Consisting of 5I/2 acres this park is operated as a supervised play- ground. It is well equipped with play apparatus and is well patronized. As condi- tions warrant more facilities should l)e added.
Pioxeer: This waterfront area should be continued because of its historical interest. It should be improved with lawns and plantings. It contains the original frame Hastings Mill store which was erected on Burrard Inlet when A'ancouver was very young. This interesting structure is used as a museum, housing relics of the early pioneers.
R.wixe: Purely ornamental, this park is one of the most unic[ue in the city, it illustrates how an otherwise useless and unsightly ravine can be artistically developed.
Renfrew Playfields: This lo-acre tract, situated at i6th Avenue and Slocan Street, contains two soccer fields, two softball diamonds, a rugby field and a medium- sized field-house with caretaker's quarters. Although it is but two blocks from both Renfrew Park and the Technical High School, it should be well maintained with play facilities as the former is somewhat too constricted in area to adequately pro- vide its full complement of facilities and the play grounds of the latter are also too small for its large enrolment.
Riverview: This large undeveloped area near the south end of Angus Drive should be provided with play facilities when the surrounding residential area is more developed.
Shaughxessv: This attractively planted area should be maintained in its pres- ent state as an open space for the surrounding neighbourhood.
Tarahill: This park is too small for any intensive use as a park or play- grounds. It should be retained, however, until the neighbouring property is more settled.
Tatlow ; This is an attractive informal area containing some tennis courts. It could be enlarged, and since there is a need for indoor recreational facilities a comnnmitv house might be located in one of the old nearby residences.
A'ictoria: This 2-acre l)lock is developed as an ornamental park and as a recreational area in a fairly well built-up residential district.
\'icTORY Square: This is one of the few open spots in the heart of the busi- ness district and contains \'ancouver's Memorial for those who fell in World War T. It will be enhanced greatly with the development of the proposed Civic Centre.
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Thorxtox : This fine ornamental park forms a gateway to the citv from the Canadian National and Union Stations. Splendid foresight was evidenced in the creation of this park.
R.C..\.F. Photograph
1 honiton I'aik in front of Canadian Xational Raihcay Station
Westmouxt: Consisting- of but an acre, this park can be developed only as an ornamental open space in a residential district. Its elevation serves admirably as a look-out point.
AREAS WHICH SHOULD BE DISPOSED OF BY THE PARK BOARD
The following existing park sites should eventually be traded, sold, or other- wise disposed of by the Park Board. These areas are not A\ell related to the rest of the system, the majority are very small, and several of them have such rugged topography tliat the cost of development would not be warranted:
|
Argyle |
Clarendon |
]Moberly |
Stuart |
|
Carleton |
Eburne |
Ouesnelle |
Talkwa |
|
Cartier |
George |
Riley |
|
|
China Creek |
Heather |
Shannon |
*Ruper1 |
''Tlie School Section of this Report recommends a combined junior and senior high school in the vicinity of the Renfrew elementary school. Rupert Park would suit admirably for this site. It is recommended, therefore, that this park be reserved for the School Board.
54
In addition to the alioAe areas, the southern portion of Musqueam Park — ■ the northern part is to be used as a high school site — should probably be disposed of eventually. It should, however, be held until a determination is made as to the ulti- mate use of the Indian Reserve and of the southeastern portion of the University Lands. In the meantime, no improvements should be located thereon.
Valdez Park is an example of an attractive area which affords no recreational service whatsoever. The planting and maintenance of this park does benefit the surrounding" propert)', but there is considerable question as to what extent park funds should be expended for such areas.
55
ADMINISTRATION OF THE RECREATIONAL SYSTEM
Since both park and school areas will provide the recreational facilities in the future, it is necessary that there be the closest cooperation between the two Boards that are responsible for the acquisition and development of these areas. It is encouraging- that these Boards have already cooperated in joint enterprises. Diffi- cult problems regarding the extent of each Board's responsibility in acquiring new land, in making improvements, and in maintaining and supervising the combined areas, will undoubtedly arise in the future. No simple formula can be presented regarding the respective responsibilities that would meet all conditions. However, the desirable area for each site is known, and this could be proportioned between the Boards in accjuiring new sites or extensions. The Park Board is a logical agency to be responsible for improving and maintaining the grounds, and the super- vision might be by joint arrangement. Whatever division is decided upon, the important requirement is that it accomplish the objective of providing adequate facilities and service at a minimum cost. Both Boards use public funds, and there is no reason why such funds cannot be properly diA-ided between them.
The Park Board now owns such a large portion of the necessarv park areas that one of its major problems is development and maintenance of these parks. The development of additional recreational facilities, especially playfield facilities, is now seriously needed. From the standpoint of new areas, the major problem is the acquisition of vacant land in advance of its development for private use.
FINANCING THE PARK PROGRAMME
There has been a gradual increase in the per capita expenditures for park purposes. According to a recent report nf the National Recreational Association, the per capita expenditures in five selected cities containing a population of from 250,000 to 500,000 increased from $1.54 in 1935 to $1.92 in 1940. In cities con- taining more than 500,000 persons the increase during- the same period was from $1.89 to $2.81. In general, the need for park facilities is greater in the larger cities and the cost is also higher. The National Association has recommended that an annual expenditure of $3.00 per capita be made for park purposes. The major portion of this amount would be necessary for operation, maintenance and normal improvements, but it would be inadequate to acquire and develop, as well as main- tain, a park system.
In order to afford a comparison of park expenditures in A'ancouver and in other cities of similar size, the following data are of interest. The per capita expenditures for park operation and maintenance during 1940 was $1.39 in Seattle, $1.91 in Kansas City (Mo.), $1.47 in Rochester (N.Y.), $1.03 in Dallas (Texas), and $1.79 in Oakland (Calif. ). In X'ancouver it was $0.70 for the year 1941. The
56
local expenditure \vas much lower than in the other five cities. If the City of Van- couver is to develop and maintain a park system that will favourably compare with other large cities the expenditures for park purposes must be substantially increased in the future.
In acquiring, developing and maintaining its share of the recreational system, the Park Board should be in a position to prepare a long-range programme consist- ing of projects that would be initiated each year. This necessitates the ability to closely estimate the amount of funds that will be available for park purposes in the future. It is practically impossible to prepare such a progrannne under the present system, where Park Board funds are appropriated only on an annual basis.
A more logical arrangement would be for the Park Board to obtain its fvuids from a separate tax upon all assessable property within the municipality. A num- ber of American cities have found that this method ol¥ers many advantages over an annual appropriation. The number of such cities has increased from 123 in 1939 to 204 in 1940. It is thus evident that there are many advantages in this source of funds. With parks becoming such an increasingly important part of the citv, the agencv that is responsible for them must have definite knowledge of potential income so that a long-range programme of acquisition, development and maintenance can be prepared and followed.
It is recommended that the advantages and possibilities of a separate park tax be carefully studied in \'ancouver. Consideration must be given to securing a tax limit that would not unduly restrict the Park Board's income in the future, particu- larly if a change were made in the assessed valuation.
In connection with the source of park funds reference should also be made of the fact that income from fees and charges for tlie use of park facilities such as swimming pools, golf courses and the like, are showing gradual increases. In the ten vear period prior to 1940 these funds increased from 4.9 to 6.3 per cent of the total park funds according to publications of the National Recreational Association. It is evident that people are willing to pay nominal amounts for the use of recre- ational facilities.
57
SCHOOL SECTION
SCHOOL TRENDS PAST TRENDS AND EXISTING CONDITIONS
The puljlic school system in A'ancouver has grown from one four-room scliool building in 1887 to 71 schools in 1944. The present system has an approximate cur- rent valuation of about $14,000,000 including grounds, buildings, and equipment. The valuation of the land alone is $2,000,000, while that of the buildings is $11,000,000, and equipment, $1,000,000.
In addition to their recreational use, the school system facilities have an important influence upon securing a desirable population pattern. Families are definiteh- interested in securing proper school facilities for their children. In selec- ting the location of their homes they consider the proximity to schools. Thus, the school svstem, because of its existing investment, its facilities for recreation, and its influence upon the future location of population, is a very integral portion of the city plan.
TREND IX SCHOOL ENROLMENT
Plate Number 8 shows the total population in \'ancouver and the enrolment at the three types of schools since 11)29. The plate also shows the trend in births and deaths, which data were provided by the Division of Mtal Statistics of the Pro- vincial Board of Health for the years 1925, 1930, 1935, 1940, and for each year thereafter. The City Assessment Department provided the data on total population for the years other than these in which the Census was taken, excepting the years 1943 and i(;44. The data for 1943 and 1944 were provided by the Wartime Prices and Trade Board. (Ration Book Distribution.)
While the total city population has been increasing since 1933, and at an especially rapid rate since 1941, there was a pronounced and consistent decrease in the elementary school enrolment between 1932 and 1942. The elementary enrolment decreased from 27,963 in September of 1931, to only 22,014 in September of 1942, a decrease of about 21 per cent. The decrease in the junior high schools began in 1934 and continued to 1942. The senior high decrease did not begin until about three or four years later. Some increase has been noted in the three types of schools since 1942, but even this increase is not nearl\- so rapid as the increase in the total population.
The trends in \ ancouver are similar to those in all large cities of the United States. The decrease in the birth rate prior to 1935 is having a marked effect upon school enrolment. The city's population is gradually becoming older, and the pro- portion of the population represented by school children is becoming smaller. The downward trend in births prior to 1935 is clearly evident at the bottom of the Plate.
60
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Plate 8
'riic increase in the l)irtlis in the i)()st-\var period (W'nrld War 1 ) was experienced, and anotlier increase may be expected shortly after the end of the present war. All students of population problems agree, however, that the long-range trend of births will l)e lower than it was prior to 1946, and no rapid increase is expected in the school enrdlment. Thus, probably less than 7 per cent of the total population, or not more than 38,000 children, will be attending public elementary schools by 1971.
There will proliably be increases in the high school enrolments, jjarticularly in the technical schools, ^iore and more youths can be expected to obtain a high school education, and a number of them will desire to have some training in a ]irofession or vocation in which tliey ma\- engage after leaving school.
EXISTING ELFAIENTARY SCHOOLS
Plate Number 9 shows the location of the existing elementary schools. The size of the black circle dei)icting the school site is related to the enrolment of the school. A circle of a half-mile radius is drawn around eacii site, and any portions of these circles that are within a half-mile of two or more schools are cross-hatched. While a lialf-mile radius is not always a clear indication of the service, since topo- graphy, industrial developments, and major thoroughfares may interfere with proper access to the school, it is quite satisfactory for general use.
The svstem now includes 55 elementary schools, of which 7 are annexes bear- ing the same name as the parent school. The majority of the duplicated school facilities are found in the heavily populated district south and east of False Creek. This is a condition that the present School Board has inherited from tlie early developments. Some readjustment and relocation is essential in this section. It is especiallv desirable that some of these school sites be enlarged.
The southwestern portion of the city contains only a few elementary schools.
This area is now growing rapidly, and additional schools will be needed. Likewise,
additional schools will eventually be needed in the southeastern portion of the city.
( irowth has not lieen rapid in this district, and extensive replotting should be carried
out because of the difticult topography.
Many of the old .schools are located on \er\- small sites. Only 10 existing school sites conform to the desirable mininmm standard of 5 acres. Twenty-three sites contain an area of 3 acres or less. The majority of the smaller sites are found in the more intesivelv developed sections where there is little vacant land and where enlargements will be expensive. It is these sections, however, that seriously need additional recreational facilities, and cooperation lietween the School and Park Pioards is necessary to provide the needed space.
Some of the schools have only a small enrolment — 200 pupils or less. Some of these small schools are found .south and east of False Creek, where there is the greatest amount of duplicated service. Enlargement of the school sites and the ])rovision of larger modern buildings should adecjuately care for the .school chil- dren in this section, even though some of the existing schools may eventually be abandoned.
Table Number I shows complete data of all elementary schools of the city.
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66
EXISTING HIGH OR SECONDARY SCHOOLS
The School Board lias aijancloned the system in which the elementary school included eit^ht grades and the secondary or high school four, and has adopted the system of six grades in the elementary school and six in the secondary school. The tlesirable radius of service for such secondary school sites is one mile. The School Hoard has been following this policy for several years.
The major defect of the present secondary school system is that a majority of the sites are too small. None of them contains ten acres, and seven contain less than five acres. The improvements proposed in the park system uill be of much benefit in providing needed pla}field facilities for secondary school students, and larger secondary school sites must al.so be acquired in the future.
Table Number II shows data pertaining to all high schools in V'ancouver.
67
PROPOSED SYSTEM OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
A proposed distribution of elementary school sites is shown on Plate Number 10. This shows the location and size of each site that should eventually contain an elementary school, as well as the existing school sites that should eventually be abandoned. The Plate also shows, by dots, the probable future distribution of popu- lation, and a mile circle has been drawn around each site of the future system. Prac- tically all the future population would be within reasonable walking distance of a school. The population be}ond the circles is sparse and there is not enough in any one district to warrant an additional school. In only a few instances would it be necessary for children to travel more than three-quarters of a mile to reach a school.
Some of the circles overlap but this overlapping prevails only in the older sections of the city. These districts will continue to be heavily populated and more schools will be needed to accommodate the pupils. Furthermore, the schools are already established with this overlapping service, and it would not be economically practicable to abandon many of them and secure new sites. A considerable amount of duplicated service now found in the area south and east of False Creek will be eliminated if the proposed system is adopted.
Any school recommended for abandonment ma_\- continue to serve for many years. The important requirement is that no expensive additions or improvements be made at these schools. They will gradually become obsolete, and eventuallv the pupils can be accommodated at adjacent schools which, in the meantime, will have been improved and enlarged. Thus the plan is a long-range scheme for the gradual extension and adjustment of school facilities. A very large proportion of the existing facilities will continue to be used, and the proposed alterations to the .sys- tem can be made without any radical changes or inconveniences to the citizens.
The following is a discussion of the proposed system in each majoi section of the city rather than a detailed discussion of each site.
Area Around CkiXtral Busiixess District
The area west of the Imsiness district will i)riil)al)ly ha\c a large concentration of population for a long time. Although the ratio of children of school age to the total population \\ill probably be low liecause of the apartment development, there will still be a very large number of children attending schools. The Sir William Dawson School and Annex are not well located to serve this population and both have inadequate sites. A new site is proposed to replace these schools, w hich, with the Lord Roberts School, w^ill adequatel\- serve the West End and the small population that will remain in the business district. The site recommended is bounded by Nelson, Bute, Comox and Thurlow Streets, and adjoins the proposed park site previously discussed. In addition to the Dawson Schools, the Central School should eventually l)e abandoned.
68
Plate 10
No new sites are proposed directly east of the business district or in the north- eastern portion of the city. The existing schools, Lord Strathcona, Governor Frederick Seymour, Sir A\'illiam MacDonald, Hastings, Sir John Franklin, Lord Xelson, and Sir Matthew Begbie, provide considerable duplication of service but they are fairly well located to serve the population. Larger sites are desirable, how- ever, and the entire block should always be owned by the School Board. In addition, as proposed in the Park Section, adjoining blocks should be acquired in several instances, to provide additional recreational facilities.
The present Woodland School should eventually be aliandoned.
Photo.^i ,iph. f ' ;;rte<;y of Vancouver School Board
Qiiccn Elhahctli School — Modern trend in elementary school building
District South of English Bay and West of Granville Street
The large majority of the existing" schools in this district are well located and are included in the future system. Some of the newer and adecjuate sites such as Oueen Elizabeth, are found in this general section. Some of the older sites are small, but because of the intensive development in the surrounding areas, the entire block is all that can be provided. The proposed park improvements will provide supplementary recreational facilities. The existing schools retained in the future system include Queen IMary, Bayview% General Gordon, Henry Hudson, Lord Tennyson, Prince of Wales, Lord Kitchener, Queen Elizabeth, Kerrisdale Annex, Kerrisdale, and Ouilchena. The Kerrisdale Annex should be enlarged as shown on the i)lan.
Three new sites are proposed. The site near Trafalgar Street and 23rd Avenue is combined with a new neighourhood park and has alread_\- been discussed. Like- ■\vise, the new site at Adera Street and 57th Avenue is combined with a proposed neighbourhood park. The third new site is proposed near S. \\'. Marine Drive
69
between Marine Crescent and Balsam Street and will serve the extreme southern portion of the city. Suggested school sites are also indicated for the University Lands lying immediately west of the city.
The only existing scIkxiI proposed for abandonment .n this entire district is the Maple Grove School. This is a good school, lint is not ])roperly related to the pro- posed svstem. It serious- ly duplicates the facilities of the Ouilchena .Schonl. Neither is it properly re- lated to the David Lloyd George School, which admirably serves the cen- tral southern portion of the city. Alaple Grove can be continued for many years until the proposed ne\\ schools are improved, but should ultimately be abandoned to insure efficiency and econom\'.
Photograph, Courtesy of \"ailcoiiver School Board
(Jiiii'ii Elizabeth School — Detail of Entrance
The only unserved area in this section of the city lies immediately east of the Point Grey Golf Course. This is low
bottom land and it will never contain a normal urban development. It may be sub- divided into small farms or truck gardens, but the density of population would be low. Only a small school would ever be needed, and it will still be more economical to furnish bus transportation for the few pupils who would live more than three- (juarters of a mile from an existing" school.
Area South of F.vlse Creek — Betwee.x Gk.\xvii.le .\xn \'ictori.\ Streets
Many of the changes proposed for the elementary school system are found in this district, particularly the northern part thereof. This is one of the older sections of the city and contains the greatest amount of duplicated school facilities.
The existing schools to be retained include Cecil Rliodes. Model, Fraser Annex, Florence Nightingale, Queen Alexandra, Lord Selkirk, Charles Dickens, Sir Rich- ard McBride. General \\'olfe. Edith Cavell Anne.x, Sir William \'an Home, Sir Alexander MacKenzie, Sir Sandford Fleming. Chief Tecumseh. Walter Moberly, Sir John Wesley Sexsmith, and David Lloyd George. The only question concern- ing the retention of any of these sites arises in connection with the Model and the Fraser Annex Schools. There is a tendency for industrial development to extend southward from F"alse Creek and absorb the residential tract served bv these
70
schools. Ho\ve\er, the rate of the trend, and the topographical conditions, indicate that there will always be considerable population that would use these facilities. Furthermore, tliese are logical areas for large scale residential re-development because of their present condition and their proximity to sources of employment. It is recommended that the school sites be retained, and by the time the Simon Fraser School is ready for abandonment it should l)e e\ident as to whether conditions are so changing that the Simon Fraser rather than the Fraser School Annex and the Model Schools should be retained in the comprehensive system. Some of the exist- ing sites should he enlarged as shown upon the plan, and some park facilities are proposed adjacent to the school sites.
Pliotograph, Courtesy of Vancouver School Hnaul
Sliaiinnii EIriiiriilary School — Fcatiiiiuij niodcin trend in school architecture
Three new school sites are proposed, one of which ( at Selkirk Street and 43r(l Avenue) is already owned by the School Board. A second site will comprise two blocks east of the present Livingstone School and will replace this school whose service is seriously duplicated. The third new site is at Heather Street and 57th Avenue and will serve the residential territory lying west of the Langara Golf Course.
Eight schools are to be abandoned eventually, although this may be slightly changed by the trend of industrial de\elopment south of False Creek. The service of all of these schools is badly duplicated, but an adequate and more econ- omical system will result from the changes.
The only unserved area remaining in this general section is the district south and east of the Shaughnessy Heights Golf Club. Should the golf club ever be sub- divided, an additional school site should be reserved in the eastern portion of the present golf course.
SOUTHEASTKR.V I'oKTIOX OF THE CiTV
Few changes arc proposed in this section of the city other than the e\entual improvement of some new sites to serve the future population growth. The exist- ing schools that will be included in the future system are Laura I^ecord. Lord
71
Beaconsfield, Renfrew. John Norquay, Sir Guy Carleton, and Sir James Douglas.
The site of the last school should be enlarged.
Two of the jM'oposed sites are now owned by the School Board. Their location is (|uite satisfactory, but all three of the proposed sites could be slightly readjusted if the proposed replotting is carried out.
Photograph, Courtesy of Vancouver School Board
Bcgbic Annex — Elementary sehool of modern design
The only abandonment proposed of existing sites is tlie Norquay Annex, whose facilities are almost entirely duplicated. However, the Begbie School Annex now under construction at Rupert Street and 7th Avenue is too near a future industrial area and should ultimately be abandoned.
The ultimate school system would include 51 schools. Forty of these sites now contain elementary schools, and the School Board already owns a number of the proposed sites.
72
I"/— u
VAN C OUVE R
BRITISH COLUMBIA
VANCOUVER TOWN PLANNING COMMISSION
cAT
PROPOSED SYSTEM
OF
HIGH SCHOOLS
LEGEND ~
■■ EXISTING HIGH SCHOOL SITES TO BE RETAINt'O
('. .. I EXISTING SCHOOL PROPERTY TOBEIWPROVtD WITH HIGH SCHOOLS
^K9 PROPOSED NEW HIGH SCHOOL SITES
% APPROXIMATE LOCATION OE NEW HIGH SCHOOLS / /
t.g.'l EXISTING AND PROPOSED TECHNICAL SCHOOLS
@ EXISTING HIGH SCHOOL SITES TO BE ABANDONED ULTIMATELY
y^ ONE MILE RADIUS AIJOUND SCHOOL
S CA l f / V F £ ET
HARLAND BARTHOLOMEvr &- ASSOClATtS TOWN PLANNERS
EACH DOT REPRLSENTS SO
MO N D PERSONS OF THE
FUTURE POPULATION,
PMc II
PROPOSED SYSTEM OF HIGH SCHOOLS
The proposed system of high schools is sliown on Plate Xuniber ii. The plan also shows the probable future distribution of population and a circle ( one mile radius) around each site. Practically all of the future population would be within one mile of a high school site, yet there would be no extensive duplication of services.
The following is a brief discussion of the proposed improvements: King George
This school was originally used as an elementary school and has outlived its usefulness. The site is very small and is opposite a large hospital. The site should be abandoned, and a new school erected in the area which will contain the new Dawson School and the proposed park near Nelson and Bute Streets. While the site would still be small, it can give very satisfactory service as a playground, playfield, and neighbourhood centre. It is well located to serve the entire \\'est End and the central business district.
Britanxi.\ and Templeton Schools
Britannia serves as a senior high and has a large enrolment. It is well located, but the site is far too small. It was previouslv recommended that the School and Park Boards cooperate in the acquisition of two blocks immediately south of this school. This extension will greatly improve the playfield facilities and also provide some neighbourhood park facilities.
The Templeton Junior High School is located a short distance north-east of Britannia. Its site is also small, although the pupils use the nearby Templeton Park. ^\'hile this school will have to continue in use for many years, no extensions are recommended, and every effort should be made to enlarge the Britannia site so that the two schools can be combined in a single area.
Lord Byng
This is a comparatively modern combined senior and junior high school. It is A\ell located at Crown Street and i6th Avenue, although some of its service radius extends beyond the present corporate limits. It is also a considerable distance from a transit line, but this may be corrected in the future. The site contains slightly less than the desirable area, but no extensions or enlargements to the site are recommended.
KrrsiLANO
This is also a combined junior and senior high school. It is well located, and Axliile the site is below the desired standard in area, it adjoins Connaught Park, Avhich contains ample area for playfield facilities.
7.3
King Edward
This was originally erected and opened as the \'ancouver High School. It is well located except that a portion of its service extends into the False Creek indus- trial area. The site contains only about 7 acres, but expansion is difficult because of the congested development in the surrounding area. Every effort should be made to acquire all or a portion of one of the adjoining blocks.
PiuildKraitli, Luiirte^y of \aiictnner Sclioul Board
I'oiiit Grey Junior High School
AIagee
This school is poorly located and should eventually be replaced by two addi- tional developments. While it now serves a portion of the ]\Iarpole district, the southern part of this section is unserved and there is a considerable area between the Magee and Kitsilano Schools that has no senior high school facilities. It is recommended that no further enlargements nor alterations be made at Magee and that the following improvements be made in lieu thereof :
That the present Point Grey Junior High School at East Boulevard and 37th Avenue be provided with senior high school facilities to serve the large area lying between the Kitsilano School and the Marpole district.
That a site for a new combined junior and senior high school be acquired near the intersection of Oak Street and 57th Avenue. This school would not only serve
74
tlie whole Marpole district but would take care of the large yet undeveloped area to the north and east. This proposed site would be near Oak Park and across the street from the proposed park and playfield previously discussed.
Toiix Oliver
The senior high school located west of Fraser Street, between 41st and 43rd Avenues, and the John Oliver Annex, east of Fraser Street, north of 45th Avenue, are operated as a unit. It is recommended that the former school be eventuall}- abandoned and that combined facilities be provided at the site of the present Annex. While this school site is small, it adjoins Memorial South Park, and could utilize the extensive play facilities of the park, and no enlargement of .school grounds wiinld be necessary.
Xi:\v Sites
{a) The School Board has held, for some time, a site at Gladstone Street and 22nd Avenue. This is well located and readily adaptable for future improvement with combined high school facilities.
(b) The Board has also held a site at Argyle Street and 53rd Avenue. While this location will result in considerable duplication with the John Oliver site, it will serve a large area west and north of Fraser \'iew Golf Course. Also, it can be developed in conjunction with Gordon Park, which lies immediately to the north.
(c) A site, consisting of two blocks bounded b}- Sophia and Prince Edward Streets and 21st and 23rd Avenues, is recommended for a combined high school to serve a well populated area. One of the blocks is already owned by the School Board, being occupied by the David Livingstone School recommended for aban- donment.
(d) In order to serve the southwesterly portion of the cit\-, when it becomes populated, a site on the northerly portion of ^Nlusqueam Park is recommended. This school would also serve any residential development in the .southeastern por- tion of the University Endowment Lands. There will probabl\- ne\-er be enough population in this section to require a large school, but some service will be warranted.
(e) A new combined high school serving the extreme northeastern portion of the city should be erected on the site of the Girls' Industrial School. This property is owned by the Provincial Government, and steps should be taken to assure its eventual use for school purposes. .A playfield is proposed for the eastern part of the site now occupied b}' the Old Peoples' Home.
(/) At Rupert Street and 17th Avenue is a tract now owned by the School Board adjoining Rupert Park. It will have been noted in the Park Section of this report that Rupert Park was recommended for abandonment. It is .suggested that this tract, consisting of almost 10 acres, be obtained fn mi the Park Board and developed with a combined junior and senior high school.
75
(g) The Board owns a site at Doman Street and 54th Avenue. Tliis is in the area recommended for replotting. When this is carried out, an adequate site should he reserved in this vicinity for a comhined his^h scliool.
While the service radii of the last three sites will extend into Burnahy, they are well located to serve the extreme eastern portion of Vancouver.
The only unserved area of any size that will he found under the proposed system is the district east and north of Shaughnessy Golf Course. If the club grounds are ever subdivided, a small high school site should be retained as was recommended for an elementary school.
Sites to be Abandoned
(a) The Fairview HigJi School of Commerce at Fir Street and Broadway, and its Annex at Yew Street and 4th Avenue, are both recommended for aban- donment. In both cases the buildings are old and inefficient, and the grounds are entirely inadequate. The pupils attending these schools can be accommodated at at other sites in the future system. Considerable income should be obtained from the sale of these grounds.
(b) Grandview High School of Commerce at Commercial Drive and First Avenue is located on a half-block and has a half-block play area across Cotton Drive to the west. It is recommended that these school properties be abandoned, as they will not be needed in the future system.
Some of the schools that are noted for abandonment will be needed for many years to come, particularly Magee, John Oliver and Templeton, but no extensive alterations or additions should be made in the interim.
76
TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOLS
There is a growing local interest in the development and use of vocational and technical high schools. These will probably become more important in the future. The following proposals will insure an adequate system of technical schools serv- ing the entire city.
The present Technical High School is located on East Broadway between Clin- ton and Slocan Streets. This is an excellent school on an adequate site, and well located to serve the eastern portion of the city.
The School Board now has a site at the southwest corner of Carnarvon Street and i6th Avenue for a new technical school. This is a good location which will serve admirably the west half of the city. It will adjoin a proposed neighbourhood park improvement.
It is recommended that the Central Elementary School site be used eventually for a downtown technical trade school. Tt is close to industrial and commercial activities, and because of its proximity to transit lines it will be particularly con- venient for the holding of night classes.
Another technical school will eventually be needed to serve the central southern portion of the city. This should be located in the Marpole district, preferably near Oak Park and the proposed school sites that are to be located nearby. Here it could use the playfield facilities proposed in connection with the other school and park developments. An additional technical school may be needed to serve the extreme southeastern portion of the city, but a large amount of residential development must occur in this area before such a school will ever be necessarv.
77
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