Local Voices: On the Waterfront with Rod Day

Most decisions are not truly final. This is the case for the decision to use the Ambleside waterfront as a place for private homes. In the first half of the 20th century, Ambleside’s Argyle Street grew organically into a thriving strip of houses, complicating public access to the waterfront. Starting in the 1960s, community leaders promoted a different vision: waterfront parks and a sea walk stretching from the Capilano River to Dundarave. This vision was the start of a 50-year journey for community members, residents, and municipal leaders. With this year’s acquisition of the final private residence, this journey is—perhaps—in its final leg.

Rod Day served as municipal councillor from 1987 to 1996 and from 2003 to 2008. He is a Professor Emeritus of History at SFU and the Past President and a current Director of the West Vancouver Historical Society. He has lived in West Vancouver since 1966.