Ever so gradually, Vancouver is becoming a more pedestrian-friendly city.

The latest example is a trial plaza near the intersection of Robson and Bute streets.

It was launched as a three-month pilot project before Canada Day.

"This plaza will build on the success of Jim Deva Plaza and is among a number of public space initiatives launching this summer," the city's director of public space and street use, Margaret Wittgens, said in a news release.

It's a joint initiative of the city and the Robson Street Business Improvement Association. Some of the street furniture is fixed, whereas other pieces can be moved.

"Following the implementation of the West End plan, the Robson Street BIA created a public realm vision for the area, including what a pedestrian plaza could look like," Robson Street BIA executive director Teri Smith said. "We are excited to see the ideations and sketches come to fruition, and we look forward to seeing people interact and gather in the space."

There's plenty of shade in the block, which makes it an ideal spot to visit if you're stuck in the blistering heat next month watching the Vancouver Pride parade get underway along Robson Street.