This is Vancouver Should B.C. compensate businesses hit by Broadway and Main closure?
Jan 28, 2026
Construction forces a four-month shutdown on East Broadway, straining restaurants and shops already worn down by subway work. Business owners describe lost customers, delivery headaches and access problems. Conversations cover possible bridge financing, interest-free loans and other non-direct support options. Residents and local groups weigh in on daily detours and community impacts.
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Restaurant Owner's Personal Strain
- Ron McGilvery says his restaurant is down about 45% compared to pre-construction levels after years of disruption.
- He sold his home and struggles to keep staff, deliveries and guests finding the diner during repeated closures.
Huge Transit Need Versus Local Pain
- The Broadway subway project aims to relieve a transit corridor that is among the busiest in North America.
- But the six-year construction, two-year delay and ongoing closures have produced deep economic pain for local businesses.
Propose Bridge Financing, Not Direct Payouts
- The Mount Pleasant BIA proposed short-term bridge financing or low-interest loans to carry businesses through construction.
- They suggested retooling programs like past COVID-era supports rather than direct compensation.