'We don't want a repeat of what happened in the past': Vancouver easing into Canucks viewing parties
Given the ugly history of the riot than broke out when there were hockey playoff parties downtown, the City of Vancouver is starting small this Sunday with an event at Oak Meadows Park.
Oak Meadows Park is located at Oak and West 37 Avenue, a fair distance away from the downtown core.
“That’s the thoughtful intention here is that we don’t want a repeat of what happened in the past,” said Coun. Pete Fry. “That’s why we’re not doing a big activation right downtown.”
Vancouver Police Department spokesperson Const. Tania Visintin said authorities are working with the city to chart the safest course forward as the playoffs continue.
“We’re continuing to work with the City of Vancouver so we can avoid these large viewing parties in the downtown core,” she said. “We’re continuing to give our recommendations on that.”
While the cost of damage from the 2011 riot amounted to an estimated $3.78 million, Sim said the price of opening the venues for this year's games "is minimal in the grand scheme of things."
"It's a time to celebrate and it's also a time to show off the fact that Vancouver fans can celebrate in a family friendly, fun and safe way," he said. "I think that will pay dividends going forward for our city and bringing swagger back to our city."
Visintin says overall crowds have been on good behaviour during this playoff run, but open alcohol has been an issue.
“We issued approximately 20-30 tickets per home game last round,” said Visintin
Alcohol is not allowed at Oak Meadows Park. The City of Vancouver does allow drinking at 31 parks throughout the year.
The city is providing porta-potties and is anticipating around 2,000 people in attendance.
“I’m not against the idea as long as people who gather here are respectful of the environment and don’t leave garbage behind,” said Jimmy Suh, a man who lives in the neighbourhood, adding he hopes the event wraps up by 11 p.m. so people can sleep in peace.
With limited parking available, the city is advising people to walk, bike or take transit and to plan ahead.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Iran President Ebrahim Raisi still missing after helicopter accident in mountains
A helicopter carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, the country's foreign minister and other officials apparently crashed in the mountainous northwest reaches of Iran on Sunday, sparking a massive rescue operation in a fog-shrouded forest as the public was urged to pray.
What do we know so far about the mysterious crash of the helicopter carrying Iran's president?
The apparent crash of a helicopter carrying Iran's president and foreign minister on Sunday sent shock waves around the region.
'A horrible way to start the summer': 3 killed in serious boat crash on lake north of Kingston, Ont.
Three people were killed and five others were injured Saturday night following a boat crash on the Buck Bay area of Bobs Lake, north of Kingston, Ont., the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) said.
Walmart, Costco refusing to sign grocery code of conduct 'untenable': industry minister
Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne says it's 'untenable' for 'smaller players' like Walmart and Costco to delay signing on to the government- and industry-led grocery code of conduct, now that industry giant Loblaw has agreed to do so.
Ottawa driver who appeared to be racing another vehicle on Highway 416 facing charges
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) says an Ottawa driver is facing charges after being caught going 187 km/h on Highway 416.
Ex-partner charged with first-degree murder after 55-year-old woman killed in Montreal
Less than 24 hours after Montreal's 12th homicide investigation began, Montreal police confirmed that a 55-year-old woman's death in St. Michel is the island's 13th homicide. The woman's ex-spouse has been charged with first-degree murder.
VIDEO Born without front legs, this dog has been inspiring the world for 3 years: Dresden farm owner
A sanctuary dedicated to animals with disabilities is celebrating the third birthday of one of its most popular residents.
Canadian immigration asks medical worker fleeing Gaza if he treated Hamas fighters
Lawyers are questioning Canada’s approach to screening visa applications for people in Gaza with extended family in Canada after one applicant, a medical worker, was asked whether he had treated members of Hamas.
Diddy admits beating ex-girlfriend Cassie, says he's sorry, calls his actions 'inexcusable'
Sean 'Diddy' Combs admitted Sunday that he beat his ex-girlfriend in a hotel hallway in 2016 after CNN released video of the attack, saying in a video apology he was 'truly sorry' and his actions were 'inexcusable.'