West Vancouver

West Vancouver, BC, incorporated as a district municipality in 1912, population 42 694 (2011c), 42 131(2006c). The District of West Vancouver is located on the north shore of Burrard Inlet, bounded by Howe Sound to the west, North Vancouver to the east and the Hollyburn, Strachan and Black mountains to the north. Until 1912 it was known as the West Capilano region of the District of NORTH VANCOUVER. West Vancouver is a mountainside community bisected by 19 major creeks, with rich coastal vegetation and a temperate climate typical of the Lower Mainland. It grew slowly after incorporation (population 700), until the catalyst of British Pacific Properties investments set off a residential boom after the Second World War. Growth was rapid up to and including the 1960s, but future expansion is greatly limited by topography and by very high real estate prices.

Present Day

West Vancouver is primarily a residential suburb, with most of its residents employed in other parts of Greater Vancouver; the vast majority of the labour force commutes across the picturesque Lion's Gate Bridge to downtown Vancouver each day. Manufacturing exists only on a small scale, but tourism is important. In 1994 Revenue Canada figures showed that West Vancouver's residents had the highest per capita income in Canada. The municipality is governed by an elected council and 6 councillors.

Two scenic highways, the Upper Levels and Marine Drive, traverse the area, whose attractions include exclusive residential districts, Hollyburn Ridge (a year-round alpine recreation area), Lighthouse Park and Horseshoe Bay. The area is noted for its salmon fishing, its rugged coastline and numerous outdoor recreation spots, including hiking and skiing trails.