Downtown Victoria is experiencing noticeable improvements in public safety and overall street conditions as expanded safety measures begin to show results. According to Jeff Bray, executive director of the Downtown Victoria Business Association (DVBA), enhanced police patrols and strategic community initiatives are helping reduce street disorder, open drug use, and disruptive activity in the downtown core.
One of the most encouraging trends is a decline in the number of needles found in public areas. The DVBA Clean Team, responsible for removing garbage, drug paraphernalia, and graffiti, reports encountering fewer needles during daily operations. Bray attributes this positive shift to improved supportive housing services that offer on-site needle disposal as well as changes in how drugs are consumed.
Bray also credits the strengthened police presence for contributing to a safer atmosphere. “We have noticed that there is less street stuff happening,” he said. “Our staff feel more secure, and businesses are reporting that the streets appear cleaner.”
City and DVBA Step Up Investment in Safety
The Victoria council has formally approved the DVBA 2.1 million draft budget for 2026, up from 2 million last year. A significant portion, 582,000 dollars, will support the Clean Team, including an additional 57,000 dollars to enhance street-level efforts.
The budget also allocates funding for marketing initiatives and major downtown events, with $352,400 for marketing and 667,000 for events, including $360,000 dedicated to Christmas programming.
Earlier this year, the city redirected more than 10 million dollars toward immediate safety improvements as part of its 99-point community safety and well-being plan. These efforts include:
- Increased deployment of police and bylaw officers in high-priority areas, including Pandora Avenue and Princess Street
- Long-term redevelopment plans for the 900 block of Pandora Avenue, an area known for encampments
- Funding for non-profit partners to support individuals transitioning off the streets and into temporary shelters or supportive housing
DVBA Marketing Achieves Strong Community Engagement
The DVBA marketing efforts are showing strong results, with a growing online presence and high engagement across social media platforms. Bray said their most successful posts are those highlighting individual businesses and the entrepreneurs behind them.
The association now has more than 40,000 followers on Instagram, reflecting rising interest in downtown business stories and community updates. “We have learned quickly what resonates,” said Bray. “Human stories get the most likes, shares, and interaction.”
Lights of Wonder Returns Bigger Than Ever
The DVBA is preparing for its annual Lights of Wonder winter festival, launching on November 29 and running through January 1 in Centennial Square. This year, the display features low-power, energy-efficient lighting that will remain illuminated throughout the festival.
For the first time, the event will include food and alcohol offerings to enhance the visitor experience. Last year’s edition attracted nearly 80,000 visitors, and attendance is expected to increase as downtown conditions continue to improve.
A Growing and Thriving Business District
The DVBA expanded district, which grew in 2022 to include 422 additional properties, has made it the second-largest business improvement association in British Columbia. With over 2,000 member businesses, the association will generate 1.9 million dollars through its levy this year, compared with 1.83 million dollars last year.
This continued expansion and investment reflect the determination of Victoria’s business community to build a safe, vibrant, and successful downtown environment.
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