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Vancouver’s East Hastings Street is known for many things. Walkability probably isn’t the first that comes to mind. But the Strathcona Business Improvement Association wants East Hastings to be Vancouver’s most walkable street by 2021.

“The campaign intends to transform East Hastings into a pedestrian destination by making it more walkable,” the association said in a news release. “The SBIA will improve walkability on East Hastings by enhancing amenities, comfort, access and sociability and promoting local business.

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“The goal is to improve on the health, environment and economy of the neighbourhood and make it enjoyable for the existing community and those visiting the area.”

With gentrification a hot topic in Vancouver — the pushback in Chinatown over the proposed condo tower comes to mind — one wonders if this walkability plan has legs.

We’ll soon find out. 2021 is coming up fast, so work is already underway, according to the association, including a push for more independent businesses in the area and “street beautification” such as more public art, murals, sculptures and benches.