Vancouver: The B.C. government will give $2.2 million to Vancouver’s Chinatown to rejuvenate the neighbourhood for residents, visitors and businesses.
The B.C. government said the funding will be provided to the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation for the restoration of storefronts and historic neon signs, and lighting upgrades for Chinatown businesses, as well as infrastructure upgrades to the Chinese Cultural Centre.
According to the Province, the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation is dedicated to the preservation and revitalization of a prosperous and inclusive Vancouver Chinatown.
“Chinatown is a strong community today and it’s also a living part of the shared heritage of this city, province and country,” said Premier David Eby.
“It’s part of our past, our present and thanks to the commitment of community leaders like the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation. It will be a vital part of our future for generations to come. Our government is proud to support this good work,” he said.
“Vancouver Chinatown is one of B.C.’s most iconic neighbourhoods with cultural significance to the Chinese Canadian community and to the history of Vancouver and our province,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport.
“The contributions of British Columbians of Chinese descent and the Chinese Canadian community are an essential part of our province’s success. This funding will ensure Vancouver Chinatown remains a vibrant and thriving community for the people who live here, local business owners and for tourists from all over the world,” she said.
“Vancouver’s Chinatown is more than just a neighbourhood. It symbolizes the city’s resilience, perseverance and pride,” said Carol Lee, chair, Vancouver Chinatown Foundation.
“With the contribution from the Province of British Columbia, we will be able to undertake projects that honour the past, embrace the present and create a thriving community for future generations. On behalf of all of Chinatown, we thank Premier Eby for his continued support in revitalizing Vancouver’s historic Chinatown,” Carol Lee added.