July 22, 2026-Progress Report

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 2026 | A25

NORTH SHORE

PROGRESS REPORT

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his year’s Progress Report arrives right on the heels of an international event that brought thousands of World Cup visitors to the North Shore. Once again, our region demonstrated why it is both a world-class destination and a quintessential West Coast community.

Local residents, business leaders, and local governments understand what makes the North Shore special: a place where economic growth and industry thrive alongside our stunning natural environment and livable neighbourhoods.

In this edition, we are honored to feature updates

from our local leaders—Mayor Linda Buchanan of the City of North Vancouver, Mayor Mike Little of the District of North Vancouver, and Mayor Mark Sager of the District of West Vancouver—who offer their perspectives from city hall.

We also hear from key industry and community champions who embody the North Shore’s shared values.

The 2026 North Shore Progress Report shines a spotlight on the visionary work taking place across our region, and our team is proud to help share these stories with you.

Sarah Strother Publisher

A26 | WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 2026

north shore news nsnews.com NORTH SHORE PROGRESS REPORT

A Message from the Mayor CITY OF NORTH VANCOUVER

Linda Buchanan

City of North Vancouver Mayor

mayor@cnv.org

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his past year saw significant progress, community investment, and momentum toward our vision of becoming the “Healthiest Small City in the World.” I have often spoken about building a city for people — one that supports health, connection, opportunity, and belonging — which is why we have continued to invest in public places that support people, partnerships that help people remain part of our community, and foster a thriving business community. One of the most transformative milestones is the completion of the new Harry Jerome

Community Recreation Centre and Silver Harbour Seniors’ Activity Centre, the most significant capital project in the City’s history. The completion of the Mahon Park Childcare Centre and Fieldhouse and the Innova Childcare Centre added new childcare spaces to support families and strengthen our local economy. In Central Lonsdale, the opening of Topo Park introduced a vibrant new green space and playground where residents and visitors can gather and connect with nature. We also saw the opening of 89 below-market homes, the delivery of an 18-bed Family Respite Centre, and the advancement of the new North Shore Neighbourhood House, which will include 179 homes at 30% below market. Progress continued on the Crosscut Bridge over Highway 1, which will provide a safer crossing and improved connectivity for students, families, and residents on either side of the highway. This year focused

on future planning, with residents and businesses shaping key initiatives like the Lonsdale Great Street Plan. Momentum is growing for the Health Innovation District, bolstered by a Leadership Working Group and Economic Development Strategy adopted in 2024. The progress we made reflects the strength of our community and the care people bring to this City every day. That collective effort was recognized when the City of North Vancouver, together with the District of North Vancouver, was named the Most Livable City in Canada by The Globe and Mail for the second consecutive year.

This recognition is something to be proud of, but it also reminds us that our work continues. I extend my sincere gratitude to residents, community leaders, volunteers, businesses, partners, and our dedicated City staff. Your passion, expertise, and commitment continue to shape the City of North Vancouver. ■

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 2026 | A27 NORTH SHORE PROGRESS REPORT

SPONSORED CONTENT

Inside the North Shore shipyard building Canada’s maritime future

Work underway on the future HMCS Protecteur (JSS1) at Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards which is in preparation for sea trials scheduled to take place later this year. Photo via Seaspan/Mike Savage.

For more than a century, Seaspan has helped shape North Vancouver’s maritime identity. Today, more than 5,000 employees are building Canada’s next generation of naval and Coast Guard Vessels while supporting the local economy and community Seaspan has been an integral part of Canada’s maritime industry for more than 100 years. On the North Shore, that history runs especially deep.

Long before the Shipyards District became a popular waterfront destination, the site was home to North Vancouver’s historic shipyard, where more than 100 Victory Ships were built during World War II. Those vessels transported critical equipment and supplies to Allied forces while helping establish Canada’s modern shipbuilding history.

Today, Seaspan continues that legacy as the largest employer on the North Shore, with more than 5,000 employees across Vancouver Shipyards and Vancouver Drydock. The company supports the local economy and beyond through ship construction, ship repair and marine transportation services while continuing the region’s long-standing connection to Canada’s maritime industry.

At Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards, construction is underway on three vessels being built under the National Shipbuilding Strategy: two Joint Support Ships (JSS) for the Royal Canadian Navy and a Heavy Polar Icebreaker for the Canadian Coast Guard. The icebreaker is the first of its kind to be built in Canada in over 60 years.

Designed for operations in the High Arctic, the Polar Icebreaker will support Arctic research, search and rescue missions and the resupply of Northern communities while strengthening Canada’s ability to defend its Arctic sovereignty.

Built with its reinforced steel hull, the vessel will be capable of operating year-round in temperatures as low as -50°C while breaking through ice up to 2.5 metres thick. Since construction began, major progress has been made at the North Vancouver shipyard, with steel blocks weighing more than 330

tonnes being assembled.

Nearby, work also continues on the future HMCS Protecteur and the future HMCS Preserver. Once complete, they will become the longest naval vessels ever built in Canada. The Joint Support Ships will carry fuel, food, ammunition and other critical supplies, extending the operational range and endurance of naval task groups, strengthening Canada’s national defence.

Construction milestones continue to bring both ships closer to completion. In June, the future HMCS Protecteur (JSS 1) marked the successful activation of the main diesel generators, an important step toward sea trials later this year. The future HMCS Preserver (JSS 2) also recently reached full structural consolidation, marking another significant milestone ahead of its launch.

Closer to Lonsdale Quay, crews at Vancouver Drydock carry out maintenance and repair work that helps keep a wide range of vessels operating safely and efficiently, including cruise ships, fishing vessels, barges and the SeaBus that connects the North Shore to downtown Vancouver.

Across the West Coast, Seaspan’s distinctive red tugboats also play an essential role, providing more than 2,500 ship assist and escort services each year.

Beyond its marine operations, Seaspan continues to support the North Shore community through local partnerships and events. The company is a major sponsor of Canada Day at The Shipyards, organized by the Rotary Club of Lions Gate, and also supports family programming such as Kids First Saturdays at the Polygon Art Gallery.

Whether it’s in the shipyard,in the community or

Heavy Polar Icebreaker under construction at Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards in North Vancouver. Photo via Seaspan/ Ana Arozarena

out on the waves, Seaspan is a driving force of North Vancouver’s maritime economy. Working alongside more than 800 Canadian suppliers through the National Shipbuilding Strategy, the company continues to strengthen Canada’s shipbuilding industry while building vessels that will serve Canadians for generations.

Learn more about Seaspan’s work in shipbuilding, ship repair and marine transportation services at seaspan.com.

Seaspan Shipyards is proud to be Canada’s long-term, strategic shipbuilding partner for the Canadian Coast Guard and Royal Canadian Navy under the National Shipbuilding Strategy.

A28 | WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 2026

north shore news nsnews.com NORTH SHORE PROGRESS REPORT

A Message from the Mayor DISTRICT OF NORTH VANCOUVER

Mike Little

District of North Vancouver Mayor

mayor@dnv.org

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hroughout 2025, Council made steady progress on community safety, climate resilience, infrastructure and housing while navigating the challenges of rising costs and changing provincial policies.

One of the year’s most significant achievements was the opening of the new Maplewood Fire and Rescue Centre. This state-of-the-art, energyefficient facility serves as both an operational fire hall and training centre, helping improve emergency

response, strengthen public safety and better support our community.

Preparing for the impacts of climate change and extreme weather remained a key priority. We advanced projects and emergency preparedness efforts designed to improve community resilience, particularly in vulnerable areas. This included strengthening emergency planning, enhancing monitoring capabilities and pre-positioning equipment to improve readiness when severe weather events occur.

Rising costs remained a challenge for residents, including those associated with the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant. Council unanimously supported a call for a public inquiry

to help ensure accountability and advocated for a fairer regional cost-sharing model while working to minimize impacts on residents wherever possible.

Addressing housing needs was also a major focus. Council responded to changes in provincial housing legislation while advocating for growth that is supported by the infrastructure, amenities and services needed to build complete communities.

As I look back on the year, I am grateful for the contributions of our volunteers, the engagement of our residents and the dedication of District Council and staff. Thank you to everyone who helped make 2025 a productive and successful year. ■

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 2026 | A29 NORTH SHORE PROGRESS REPORT

SPONSORED CONTENT

3 common mistakes families make when downsizing too late Many North Shore families put off downsizing, only to find the process becomes more stressful and overwhelming later. Learn common mistakes and how to plan a smoother transition The hardest part of downsizing isn’t selling the house.

It’s saying goodbye to a place that’s been home for decades.

After years in the same home, every room tells a story.

“For many North Shore homeowners, the family home represents decades of memories, milestones and hard work. It’s where children were raised, holidays were celebrated and life happened,” says Vivian Zhang, realtor and educator at Shore New Realty.

It’s that emotional connection that often makes downsizing difficult to even think about. Instead of starting the conversation early, many families put it off, even when they know a move may be in their future.

While there’s no perfect time to downsize, waiting too long to start planning can turn what could have been a thoughtful transition into a stressful one. Here are some of the most common mistakes families make when they delay the conversation.

Waiting until a move becomes necessary Many people assume they’ll know when it’s time to downsize. But in reality, life doesn’t always offer the luxury of planning ahead.

A sudden illness, injury or change in mobility can quickly shift the timeline, leaving families to make important decisions under pressure.

“When families start early, they can explore housing options, declutter gradually and make decisions at their own pace,” Zhang says.

Planning ahead isn’t about rushing into a move. It’s about giving yourself the time and flexibility to make decisions that feel right, rather than reacting to circumstances.

Trying to tackle everything at once

A lifetime of belongings isn’t something most people can sort through in a weekend.

One of the biggest surprises for families is just how long the process takes. From deciding what to keep to donating, selling or passing treasured items on to loved ones, every decision carries emotional weight.

“When a move is planned, families have time to consider their options and make thoughtful decisions. When it happens suddenly, everything becomes more stressful and reactive,” says Zhang.

Rather than waiting until a move is around the corner, setting aside a few hours every month to organize one room or one closet can make the transition feel far more manageable.

Taking over instead of offering support

When parents start thinking about downsizing, adult children often want to help solve the problem as quickly as possible.

But what parents usually need most isn’t someone to make decisions for them.

“The most valuable thing adult children can offer is support, not direction,” Zhang says. “Listen first.

Ask questions. Understand what’s important to your parents before offering solutions.”

Approaching the process as a partnership helps parents feel heard and respected while giving them

Vivian Zhang has spent more than 10 years helping families navigate the downsizing process. Photo via Shore New Realty

Downsizing is often an emotional process. Photo via Envato Elements

the confidence to make decisions on their own terms.

A smoother next chapter

There’s no perfect time to downsize but planning ahead can make the transition feel less overwhelming.

A former educator with more than 10 years of experience, Vivian Zhang takes a patient, stepby-step approach to helping North Shore families navigate downsizing. Beyond buying and selling homes, she helps families create a personalized plan and connects them with trusted local resources to make the process smoother.

Families looking to learn more before making any decisions can download Zhang’s free ebook, StressFree Downsizing for Retirement, which offers practical guidance for planning the next chapter.

The ebook is available by scanning the QR code below.

“Downsizing isn’t about giving something up. It’s about creating a home and lifestyle that better supports the next chapter of life,” says Zhang.

For more information about Vivian Zhang’s downsizing services or to book a complimentary consultation, visit www.shorenewrealty.com.

Vivian Zhang, realtor and educator at Shore New Realty.

Photo via Shore New Realty

Shore New Realty supports North Shore homeowners through every stage of the real estate journey, with a focus on thoughtful, client-centred service. The team works closely with families to provide clear guidance, trusted local resources and a smooth, well-supported experience during major life transitions such as downsizing.

A30 | WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 2026

north shore news nsnews.com NORTH SHORE PROGRESS REPORT

A Message from the Mayor

DISTRICT OF WEST VANCOUVER

Mark Sager

District of West Vancouver Mayor

mark@westvancouver.ca

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est Vancouver has made significant progress in advancing Council’s 2024–2026 Strategic Plan, with major achievements across environmental protection, housing, local economy, mobility, municipal services, and social well-being.

Among the most historic accomplishments was completing the long-standing Ambleside Waterfront Acquisition Plan by securing the final residential waterfront lots on Argyle Avenue, fulfilling a nearly 50-year

community vision. The District also expanded public parkland, dedicated 24 parks, accepted the donation of West Grebe Islet as protected parkland, and delivered new and renewed recreation amenities, including the West Vancouver Place for Sport, Harry Jerome Oval, and a new permanent Youth Hub. Council also advanced major environmental priorities, including dedication of the 1,932-acre Upper Lands Park and transfer of 262 acres of Eagleridge Lands into protected parkland.

Progress on housing included adoption of the Cypress Village Area Development Plan, completion of required provincial housing work, new rental replacement and tenant assistance policies, and 156 affordable housing units completed and occupied at Kiwanis Village West.

We have invested in safer, more connected transportation, including new bike lanes, sidewalks, pedestrian safety upgrades, road reconstruction, and planning for future rapid transit connections.

At the same time, West Vancouver maintained strong financial stewardship, earning continued national recognition for budgeting and financial reporting, while keeping operational tax increases below regional averages.

These achievements reflect the dedication of Council, staff, volunteers, community partners, and residents working together to protect what makes West Vancouver exceptional while preparing for the future.

Thank you to Council, staff, and residents for your vision, commitment, and care. It is an honour to serve as your mayor. ■