The Public Square as an Economic Space - Trevor Barnes, Andrea Reimer, John Tylee April 8, 2009

In many cities public squares (as one component of the public realm) play a key role in the local economy. Consider some of the many dimensions of economic activity that exist within such grand gathering places: public markets, celebratory events and concerts, carnivals, lunch-time vending, tours and tourism activities, busking, cafes and more.


Not only that, but well designed public squares and plazas often prove to be a magnet for stores, services, artists and entertainers who want to locate in or near the action – a fact that, in turn, brings even more people into these central gathering places. The flexible nature of good public squares mean that they act as catalysts for a diverse array of economic activity – much more so than malls or commercial streets.
What if Vancouver had a main public square such as exists in other corners of the globe? What sort of role would this space play on the economic life of our city?
The Vancouver Public Space Network is pleased to present the latest instalment of our “Where’s the Square?” Speaker Series. Please join us for a discussion on The Public Square as an Economic Space.
The event starts with presentations by our special guests:
* Trevor Barnes, Economic Geographer, UBC
* Andrea Reimer, Councillor, City of Vancouver
* John Tylee, Vancouver Economic Development Commission
We’ll also be providing time for a Q&A. And along the way, we’ll also be providing an update on our “Where’s the Square?” ideas design competition. It promises to be a great evening, and we hope you’ll be able to attend.
For more information, please see our WheresTheSquare.ca webpage, or email us at [email protected].