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 West Vancouver Statistics:
Summer temperatures average 17.3C (63.1F) and winter temperatures average 3.2C(38F).
Residential Property Tax Rate: $ 6.57 per $1,000 assessed value
Housing:
West Vancouver is foremost a residential community with limited commercial and no industrial zoning. Many residents commute to Vancouver. Driving time varies from ten minutes to more than one-half hour, depending on location and the time of day. Emphasis has always been on single family detached units (about 80 percent of all homes). Duplexes, townhouses, condos and other attached dwellings represent the remainder.
West Vancouver's longest established areas are truly beautiful. British Properties, with its famous mountainside homes and gardens, was developed in the late 1930's. Its existence was the main reason for the construction of the Lion's Gate Bridge. Chartwell is a newer extension of the Properties with smaller view lots.
The homes and property on the waterfront from Ambleside to Lion's Bay are some of the most beautiful and sought after real estate in North America. The beaches and waters that form the boundary of West Vancouver offer some of the best recreational opportunities in the Vancouver area.
Eagle Harbour, en route to Horseshoe Bay, is a secluded area with a resort-like atmosphere and water access. Gleneagles, adjacent to Horseshoe Bay, lies between Howe Sound and a magnificent public golf course. Caulfield, named after a West Vancouver pioneer, is home to Lighthouse Park and many attractive residences.
Nice districts closer to Vancouver are: Sentinel Hill (older, with awkward terrain but splendid views); Westmount, Altamont (extra large properties) and Bayridge.
New construction is focused westward on both sides of the Upper Levels Hwy., a continuation of the Trans Canada. The Sahalee Development on the Caulfield Plateau features low-density attached non-condominium housing, luxurious in concept and execution. Caulfield Heights and Vista Place are two other notable neighbourhoods in this area.
Ambleside, known as "The Village", is the heart of West Vancouver. It houses commercial and administrative buildings, such as the municipal courthouse and police complex. West Vancouver has its own police department. The Village Square is a charming tri-level shopping court, located in the vicinity of a string of other elegant boutiques and coffee houses.
The area has experienced major revitalization. All overhead wiring has been moved underground, and the waterfront park and promenade expanded and upgraded.
The rental market in West Vancouver is very desirable. Most vacancies appear in Ambleside, where apartment buildings are plentiful.
Education:
West Vancouver is distinguished for its high academic standards, but ironically does not have its own college. There are two senior and one junior secondary, and 11 elementary schools, including one at Lions Bay. French immersion programs are offered at Hollyburn Elementary (K-3); Pauline Johnson (4-6); and Sentinel Secondary.
Transportation:
West Vancouver has its own "Blue Bus" service. During rush hours, it travels on the express lane on the Lion's Gate Bridge, shortening the travel time to Vancouver. There are numerous Park & Ride lots which can ease the commute. The Crosstown 239 bus connects with the Sea Bus to Vancouver from North Vancouver's Lonsdale Quay. For more information, call West Vancouver Transit at 604-985-7777.
B.C. Ferries travelling to and from Bowen Island, the Sunshine Coast and Nanaimo all depart and arrive through the Horseshoe Bay terminal. For information, call B.C. Ferries at 604-277-0277
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