JWest - What is it, really?
A clear guide to what’s changing, what’s not, and why it matters.
Since the launch of the JWest campaign, the vision for redeveloping the current Jewish Community Centre (JCC) site at Oak and 41st has continued to evolve. Now, with construction scheduled to begin in spring 2026, the future is beginning to take shape - and naturally, many in our community have questions. What’s being built? Is anything going away? Will the JCC still be there?
We hear you — and we’d like to offer some clarity.
What is actually being built?
We’re creating a new Jewish campus on the current site, designed to serve both our community and the broader Oakridge neighbourhood. The redevelopment includes three main elements:
1. A brand-new JCC - larger, more accessible, and better equipped to meet the needs of our growing and diverse community.
2. A new King David High School (KDHS) - offering students a modern space for learning, connection, and growth.
3. Two residential rental towers - which will support the financial sustainability of the campus and help address the city’s need for more rental housing.
Together, these components form a welcoming, multi-use hub rooted in Jewish values - built for the future.
Is the JCC changing its name to JWest?
No - the JCC will continue to be the Jewish Community Centre.
“JWest” is the name of the redevelopment project: the initiative leading the fundraising, planning, and construction. You’ll see and hear the name often over the next few years, but it’s all about the project, not a rebrand of our community buildings.
How much bigger is the new JCC going to be?
A lot bigger than the current one. It will be a six-storey building , with an 8-lane, 25-metre swimming pool, expanded fitness areas, a larger childcare centre with outdoor play space, a state-of-the-art theatre, and a much more prominent Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre (VHEC). It will also remain a hub for community organizations - some that are already part of the JCC, and some new ones that will be joining in.
The design reflects the needs of today’s users and future generations, with more space for programs, more flexible and shared-use areas, and thoughtful updates throughout to support wellness, learning, and connection.
Why include residential towers?
The two residential towers are a key part of making the campus financially sustainable over the long term. They’ll provide steady income to support campus operations, maintenance and upgrades.
At the same time, they help address a pressing local issue - the shortage of rental housing. These towers will include a mix of units, including below-market housing, contributing to both community and city-wide goals.
What is the construction timeline? What happens to the JCC in the meantime?
Construction is set to begin in spring 2026, starting in the current parking lot. During this time, the existing JCC will remain open. Programs and services will continue, and parking will still be available. (We’ll share more about logistics in an upcoming update.)
Once the new JCC is complete - estimated in about three years - the current JCC building will be taken down. That space will then be used for the new King David High School, outdoor recreation areas, residential towers, and parking for the site.
Does JWest have all the money needed to build this great new campus?
Great question! Thanks to our amazing donors and the support from both the Federal and the BC governments we are over 90% to our goal! But next year, as we get ready to break ground in the parking lot of the current JCC, there will be an opportunity for the community to contribute to this transformative project.
Should we be excited?
Absolutely! This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity - and everyone can be part of it! Together, we're building a bold, inclusive, and future-focused campus that reflects the heart of our community and strengthens Jewish life in Vancouver for generations to come.
Next year, we’ll break ground in the parking lot of the current JCC - and with that, the transformation begins. But this isn’t just a construction project. It’s a community movement - and we want everyone to be part of it.
In the coming months, we’ll launch a public fundraising campaign, and every single contribution will help bring this vision to life. Whether large or small, every donation will make a lasting impact - because this campus is being built for the community, and by the community.
We’ll be sharing exciting updates, answering your questions, and giving you a behind-the-scenes look as we move forward. In the meantime, visit JWestnow.com to meet the team, explore the vision, and see the generous donors already helping lead the way.
Let’s build this — together.
We gratefully acknowledge the support this project has received from the Government of British Columbia and the Government of Canada.