Summary
“Distinguished by its francophone character, older buildings and proximity to the City’s ByWard Market, Vanier began to struggle with higher levels of drug trafficking and prostitution. Increasingly unkempt streets and parks, and dilapidated businesses and residences contributed to a sense of decline. On the surface, Vanier’s 15,726 residents – 69 percent of whom rent their homes compared with 37 percent in the rest of the city1 – seemed to have given up hope for better days. Community members rarely reported crimes or concerns about suspicious activities to the police. A Community Police Centre, established to foster relationships and educate the public about crime and safety issues, had failed to attract much notice among residents in general. Neighbourhood Watch programs were nonexistent.”--Page 1.