Dear Reader,

What can patients expect when the new St. Paul's Hospital opens in Vancouver as part of a global health hub in February 2027? 
 
That was one of many topics explored this week at the Next Metro Vancouver summit, a day-long series of presentations by innovative thinkers on how to build a vibrant region. The event was hosted by Vancouver-based CityAge, a network for 25,000 leaders around North America, in partnership with the Vancouver Sun. 

Other topics included how Vancouver International Airport is expanding without expensive construction projects, the so-called "bytes before bricks" strategy. The potential for 10-storey mass timber buildings as the future of condo construction in Metro Vancouver. And a discussion of how we could become a world leader in ocean-based economic activities from the port to offshore power generation, ship building and aquaculture. 
 
I was impressed by the enthusiasm of the 100-plus attendees, a group that included business, government and First Nations representatives. Miro Cernetig of CityAge and I are already discussing what the next event might focus on. 

You can learn more about CityAge here.

Everyone at this week’s summit recognized that the region’s economy is in desperate need of a boost that can only come if we embrace new ideas that fuel efficiencies and generate new products that can then be exported around the world.  
 
A robust economy is critical to address the immense affordability, infrastructure and climate pressures we face.  Metro Vancouver is expected to add about one million new residents over the next 20 years to take the population nearly four million.  
  
The good news, according to many of those at the summit, is that Metro Vancouver is well positioned to meet these challenges, led by energic entrepreneurs, an educated workforce and geographic proximity to major markets. 
 
In the coming weeks and months, we will bring you stories that dig into some of the big ideas identified above and others presented at the summit. We will also share with you video clips from the event. 
 
This commitment to local journalism and stories that can help shape a brighter future is possible because of subscribers like you. Your support is greatly appreciated. 
 
Please let me know what you think of stories in our Next Metro Vancouver series and share your questions and ideas. I can be reached at hmunro@postmedia.com. 

Right now, you’ve got limited access to our in-depth stories. To keep exploring our coverage and support quality local journalism, consider grabbing a digital subscription — it’s just $1 for 6 months for a limited time!

Kind regards,  
 
Harold Munro 
Editor-in-Chief 
Vancouver Sun | The Province