The Vancouver Police Training Academy in the Woodward’s building was officially opened today at a ribbon-cutting ceremony with more than 275 guests and community members attending.  

 “This state-of-the-art Academy represents a new chapter in the history of the VPD and, crucially, in how recruits are trained to become officers who will serve the unique and dynamic policing needs of Vancouver,” said Vancouver Police Department (VPD) Chief Steve Rai. 

 “For the first time since 1978, when the Department last had its own training program, we will be able to fully develop the next generation of police officers in Vancouver -- from the day they join our organization to when they graduate and begin their careers with the VPD.” 

 Forty “Class One” recruits began their studies at the facility in the Woodward’s building at 351 Abbott Street in the Downtown Eastside earlier this week. The students will complete their training and start work in the city on June 25, 2027. Another 40 recruits (Class Two) begin their studies January 18, 2027. 

 “The opening of the Vancouver Police Training Academy is a significant milestone for public safety in Vancouver,” said Terry Yung, Minister of State for Community Safety and Integrated Services.

 “As a graduate and former trustee of the Justice Institute of B.C., training recruits within the city will give them valuable exposure to the operational environment, diverse communities, and public safety challenges they will encounter throughout their careers. This academy will help prepare the next generation of officers and strengthen public safety for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”

 Initially announced in February 2026, the 30,000-square-foot, 3-floor Training Academy received provincial approval in March. Construction in the space formerly occupied by London Drugs began June 1.  

 “The Academy is a foundational addition to the Woodward’s building and to the Downtown Eastside community. Greater police presence in the area is already showing a positive public safety impact with the addition of District 5 operations and will only continue to improve now the Academy is running,” said Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim. 

 “Vancouver’s residents, business, and visitors are clear – safety is a top priority for them. This location was specifically chosen to enhance safety, stability and community in the DTES, Gastown, Chinatown and surrounding areas.”

 The City of Vancouver provided $4 million in total for the work, which included $2.8 million for the establishment of District 5 and $1.2 million for the Academy. Additional costs are fully funded within the approved VPD budget. 

 “Today’s grand opening is indeed a milestone for VPD recruits and the Department. On behalf of the VPD, I thank the City of Vancouver, the Province, Westbank Properties, and the Vancouver Police Foundation for their support. I also want to recognize the many VPD officers and civilian staff who worked tirelessly over the last four months to build out the Recruit Development Program, including a Vancouver-centric curriculum, and to oversee the construction and all other facets of this project,” said Rai.