According to the news release, the Harbour Swimming Deck will feature a family-friendly swimming area, lounging areas, jumping platforms, and swim lanes, offering safe, accessible, and free public access to the water. The deck is designed to accommodate up to 400 people and will include an accessible shallow pool, 50-metre swim lanes, a jumping platform, and a fully accessible ramp connecting the park to the deck.
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Improvements to the surrounding Waterfront Park are also planned, including renewed washrooms, change rooms, outdoor showers, seating areas, and the potential for seasonal additions such as portable saunas and food carts.
The city is gathering community feedback through both in-person and online channels. Three drop-in information sessions are scheduled: Thursday, June 18 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Waterfront Park (200 Esplanade W); Friday, June 19 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Cates Deck, Shipyards, near the Polygon Gallery; and Saturday, June 20 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., again at Waterfront Park. An online survey is also available through June 30 at letstalk.cnv.org/HarbourDeck.
According to the news release, the city wants to hear from the public on which features matter most, preferred operating hours and seasons, and what park improvements would enhance the overall experience.
The project was announced on November 3, 2025, by Mayor Linda Buchanan and Council. It is being carried out in partnership with national environmental non-profit Swim Drink Fish, supported by a donation from the Weston family and additional city funding.
According to the news release, construction is anticipated to begin in early to mid-2027, with the facility expected to open later that same year, pending the permit process with the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority.
