Vancouver city council approved funding to build a permanent “Vancouver” sign along the Coal Harbour waterfront, in preparation for the city’s role as a host during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

On Wednesday, councillors voted 10–1 to contribute up to $300,000 in capital costs and $50,000 in annual operating costs. Other partners will cover the remainder of the project’s estimated total of $1 million. According to CBC News, Destination Vancouver and the Vancouver Hotel Destination Association have each committed $200,000.

The city plans to install the sign between the Vancouver Convention Centre and Canada Place. As per CBC, the structure will measure 44.2 ft (13.5 m) wide, 5.9 ft (1.8 m) tall, and 3.2 ft (1 m) deep. It will include lighting features and may incorporate art or designs from local artists or Indigenous communities.

A buzz

The city moved forward with the project after a temporary version of the sign, installed during the winter of 2023 and 2024, proved popular. That sign appeared under the “Liven UP Coal Harbour” campaign, which the Vancouver Hotel Destination Association led in partnership with the Vancouver Convention Centre and the Port of Vancouver, CBC reported.

Mayor Ken Sim supported the permanent sign, citing its role in tourism promotion. “It plays a huge role in making Vancouver even cooler… there will be a buzz,” he said during the meeting.

Councillor Peter Meiszner also backed the project, and has done so since the temporary sign was first installed. “Tourists … sharing those photos and videos on social media around the world helps promote Vancouver,” he said, noting that it also creates civic pride.

The City will now begin feasibility and design work. They will prepare the site, install a structural base, connect electrical components, and engage the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh nations, according to Chad Pawson’s CBC report. Councillors also directed staff to explore additional partnerships or donations to reduce the city’s contribution.

Some concerns

Councillor Sean Orr voted against the project, raising concerns about cost and visual impact. “I am just unfortunately concerned about the optics, the cost also,” he told CBC News. Councillor Sarah Kirby-Yung flagged safety issues. “I’m going to trust in the process, but I have very clear expectations with staff doing their due diligence with respect to safety, and I feel that that was heard loud and clear,” she said. If the city stays on schedule, staff expect to install the sign by spring 2026.