This is Vancouver Why don't we have enough public washrooms?
9 snips
Jan 20, 2026 Mike Klassen, a Vancouver City Councillor, dives into the pressing issue of public washroom access in the city. He discusses the city's new Washroom Strategic Framework aimed at improving signage and maintenance for facilities. Klassen highlights the critical need in the Downtown Eastside and introduces the Portland loo design as a potential solution. He also examines the lack of washrooms in transit planning and emphasizes the importance of collaborating with private businesses. This conversation sheds light on a vital yet overlooked service for all residents.
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Paper Network, Practical Gaps
- Vancouver has many public washrooms on paper but big practical gaps in availability and condition.
- The city needs a coordinated, cross-departmental strategy to map and prioritize where new or improved facilities belong.
Coordinate Departments Under One Plan
- Coordinate parks, facilities and transit under one plan to eliminate silos and target gaps.
- Use a city-wide umbrella strategy to determine where durable facilities like Portland Loos are most needed.
Portland Loo Pilot At Main And Powell
- Mike Klassen described installing a Portland Loo at Main and Powell to serve high-need areas.
- He noted existing Portland Loos in Crab Park and Cooper's Park and their maintenance challenges.