New Westminster – New Westminster is creating more ‘Safe Space to Move’ by opening Front Street for walking, wheeling and biking this summer. As part of the city’s recovery plan, Front Street will be closed to vehicle traffic on weekends starting July 4, 2020 and will allow people to have space to get around while respecting physical distancing.

“Opening Front Street to walking, wheeling and biking offers the community an exciting opportunity to experience a connected Riverfront all the way from Begbie Street to Sapperton Landing,” said Mayor Jonathan Coté. “Local businesses are open to serve visitors and it will be the ideal spot for both staying active or taking in the sights of historic Front Street.”

On Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from July 4th until Labour Day weekend, no motor vehicle traffic will be allowed on Front Street between East Columbia and Begbie Street from 8:00 am-8:00 pm. This includes truck traffic, which traditionally has lower volumes at weekends and during the summer. Trucks and other traffic will be detoured to alternate routes.

Interested businesses and members of the community are invited to contact the Transportation Department to discuss ideas for events that could take place along the street over the summer. Front Street is conveniently located a short distance away from New Westminster Skytrain station and numerous different bus routes. If your only option for reaching Downtown is by car, you should plan for delays as the City continues to roll out measures to support walking, biking and transit. Nearby pay parking is available at New Westminster Station and in the Front Street parkade on Columbia Street. Vehicle access to the Front Street Frontage Road remains open to maintain vehicle access to Front Street businesses, which will remain open.

You can find updates on the City’s other initiatives to create Safe Space to Move at www.newwestcity.ca/safe-space-to-move

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Media Contact:

Antonia Reynolds
Active Transportation Coordinator

604.515.3811