The new JCC - what can we expect?
A clear guide to what’s changing, what’s not, and why it matters.
Last month, we shared an overview of the JWest project and responded to some thoughtful questions from our community. Since then, even more questions have come in — and we’re always happy to keep the conversation going.
What improvements can we expect in the new JCC?
Rendering of new JCC by Acton Ostry Architects
There’s a lot to look forward to. The new JCC is being designed with our growing community in mind — modern, inclusive, secure and accessible for all. Highlights of the new facility include:
A six storey, 200,000-square-foot building
An 8-lane, 25-metre swimming pool
Expanded childcare facilities, including a rooftop outdoor play area
Two full gymnasiums, one of which will be home to King David High School (KDHS)
Universal change rooms with individual stalls for comfort, privacy and accessibility
A multi-function theatre (great for films and events), with comfy, retractable seating and full wheelchair access
A new, purpose-built art gallery space
A larger, more welcoming café and restaurant in the Atrium
A renewed, modern and expanded Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre (VHEC)
What about parking during construction?
With construction of the new JCC due to start in spring 2026, we’re working closely with Grosvenor, the developer behind the Mayfair West project across 41st Avenue, to coordinate temporary parking for JCC members, staff, and visitors. While final details are still being confirmed, this location is expected to be the primary parking option during construction. At the same time, drop-off and pick up zones will be provided at the current JCC building for the childcare centre and for people with limited mobility.
While these temporary arrangements may require some adjustment, they will ensure that the JCC can continue offering the full range of programs and services throughout construction. Most importantly, they’re just a bridge to the future — with long-term parking solutions already in the works for the new campus.
“The JCC is committed to its members, and the entire community. We will be by your side every step of the way through construction.”– Eldad Goldfarb, Executive Director, Jewish Community Centre of Greater Vancouver
Will Jewish agencies and partner organizations still have a home in the new JCC?
Yes — absolutely. The JCC has long been a home for a wide range of Jewish organizations — and that legacy will continue in the new campus. In fact, the new facility is designed to foster even greater collaboration and expanded programming for all ages and interests.
While the final list is still being finalized, most of the community partners and organizations currently housed in the JCC will move into the new building, joined by some new partners who will bring fresh energy and offerings to the campus.
For the most up to date list, please visit the JWest website.
Why a new school — and why integrate it with the JCC?
Rendering of new King David High School by Acton Ostry Architects.
King David High School (KDHS) has been a vital part of Jewish life in Vancouver for decades, but like the current JCC, the school has outgrown its space. The existing building cannot support further enrollment growth or accommodate the full scope of programs and facilities that today’s students — and tomorrow’s — need to thrive.
On top of that, the school is currently separated from the JCC by a large parking lot and a city street, which limits opportunities for shared programming, spontaneous interaction, and the sense of being part of a larger community. The new campus changes that. By bringing the school and the JCC right next to each other, it will become a true shared space—one vibrant, connected campus. With students spending time at the JCC every day, the whole place will be filled with energy, laughter, and activity. This kind of daily connection will open the door for more collaboration between teachers, families, and community members, and help everyone feel like they belong.
"A school on the same campus as the JCC will give us a true feeling of Jewish community. We are excited to be more integrated with life at the JCC." – Dr. Seth Goldsweig, Head of School, King David High School
Importantly, the phased approach to construction ensures that both the JCC and KDHS will remain fully operational in their current buildings throughout the project. Each organization will only move once its new home is ready, minimizing disruption and allowing continuity in programs, services, and learning.
At its core, this integrated campus reflects a long-term investment in Jewish education, culture, and connection — all on one site, and all built to grow with our community.
We’ll be sharing more updates in the months ahead. In the meantime, we invite you to visit JWestNow.com to learn more about the project, meet the team behind it, and explore the incredible community of donors making this vision a reality. And if you missed the first Q&A about JWest, you can find it here.
We gratefully acknowledge the support this project has received from the Government of British Columbia and the Government of Canada.