Councillor wants Vancouver to realize the full potential of its 'night' economy

A Vancouver city councillor wants her newmotion to unlock the potential ofVancouver's nighttime economy.

Coun.Lisa Dominatosays cities around the world have started paying attention to theirnighttime economies which include sectors like dining, entertainment, music, concertsand related economic factors includingtransportation and food and drink costs.

"There [are] lots of things that can be activated after five o'clock, and contribute in a positive way both to the local economy in terms of jobs ... but also to the vibrancy of our city in terms of arts and culture hospitality," Dominato said.

She says her four-page motion brings together work the city has already done onliquor policy, music strategy and its creative city strategy to create a stronger focus on the night economy.

The strategy wouldextend beyond the patronsof Vancouver's traditional bar scene toyoung families, children and youth, and students.

"It also includes nighttime workers," she said."We've got people working in sectors like health care, policing, first responders as well that are part of our nighttime economy ... soafter five o'clock you have to think about things like public transportation, public safety, accessibility and what are all the different wraparound pieces that might be basic things like lighting, washrooms."

Dominato's motion goes before council on May 28.