Work begins to build public housing project near Toronto’s Trinity Bellwoods Park

Work has commenced on a significant mural honoring two notable figures from Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, following the passing of Trey Helten. The mural, located at the former Balmoral Hotel site on East Hastings Street, aims to provide closure for the community in mourning the loss of two beloved members—Helten and Angel Gates.

Spearheaded by artists Kyle Shipman and Jesse Gouchey, the project was originally conceived by Helten before his death in April 2025. Gates, a prominent figure within the community, had been the intended subject of the mural, but the design was later adjusted to include Helten painting Gates, symbolizing their enduring legacy.

Helten, once the manager of the Overdose Prevention Society (OPS), had long envisioned turning the derelict Balmoral Hotel—currently awaiting redevelopment as social housing—into a tribute to the community he fought to uplift. The city took ownership of the Balmoral in 2020 following an expropriation settlement, after years of mismanagement and safety concerns led to its closure in 2017. In February 2022, a demolition order was issued due to the building’s unsafety, making way for the mural project.

Artist Jamie Hardy, also known as Smokey D, will contribute the mural’s bottom section, expressing deep respect for both Helten and Gates. “It’s pretty heavy,” Hardy remarked, acknowledging the emotional weight of the project. OPS executive director Sarah Blyth recounted how the initiative began years ago, spurred by the need to honor the community’s loss.

Despite bureaucratic hurdles, the project is progressing, with the city providing the site and paint, while OPS gathered donations to cover unforeseen costs. The mural, expected to feature contributions from around a dozen artists, is slated for completion within a month.

Beyond the mural, Blyth highlighted an additional proposal to paint alleyways in the area with bright colors to improve visibility for city vehicles. The Balmoral Hotel site has been temporarily managed by the Carnegie Community Centre since 2025, in collaboration with the city and BC Housing. However, provincial budget cuts have delayed the redevelopment plans, which were initially intended to be funded through the Community Housing Fund (CHF).

The City of Vancouver maintains the project as a priority, and the province is currently exploring alternative funding sources.