New Westminster – The City of New Westminster has launched a design and engagement process for the Uptown Active Transportation Improvements Project. The initiative includes two exciting projects that, together, will reimagine some local streets to make it easier for people of all ages and abilities to move comfortably and safely on foot, bicycle, and other non-motorized wheels in the Uptown neighbourhood.

"The Uptown neighbourhood is an important residential and commercial area in New Westminster and in need of improved sustainable transportation infrastructure,” said Mayor Jonathan Coté. “The active transportation projects will significantly improve the cycling and walking experience and create safer and more accessible connections to other parts of the city.”

The Rotary Crosstown Greenway Upgrades and New Westminster Secondary School (NWSS) Cycling Connector projects take direction from the vision set in the Council-approved Uptown Streetscape Vision to create “a vibrant commercial district with a distinct identity, accessible and sustainable transportation, and inviting and engaging public spaces that are welcoming to all people."

The City is seeking community feedback on design options for the Rotary Crosstown Greenway upgrades along Seventh Avenue between Eighth Street and Fifth Street, and on possible routing options for the new NWSS Cycling Connector.

These projects align with the City of New Westminster’s Master Transportation Plan goals and Seven Bold Steps for Climate Action - specifically, Car-light Community and Quality People-Centred Public Realm.

“A key goal of these projects is to provide a Crosstown Greenway and connection to NWSS that are safer and more comfortable for people of all ages and abilities,” said Councillor Patrick Johnstone, Chair of the Sustainable Transportation Advisory Committee. “Providing safe routes to school is one of the fundamental aspects of encouraging more community members to choose active transportation.”

Additional project goals include enhancing the public realm and tree canopy, seeking opportunities for green infrastructure, and reducing the impacts of motor vehicles and through traffic in this neighbourhood, while limiting the impacts to people who rely on on-street parking.

The Rotary Crosstown Greenway Upgrades will improve safety, comfort and accessibility on the section of the existing greenway along Seventh Avenue between Eighth Street and Fifth Street. These upgrades will replace the interim bike lanes installed on Seventh Avenue in 2017.

The new NWSS Cycling Connector project will link the Rotary Crosstown Greenway on Seventh Avenue to the east entrance of the new school on Sixth Street, enabling students, staff and visitors to conveniently and safely cycle, wheel or walk to the school from the east and south.

There are multiple engagement opportunities coming up in September and October. To learn more about the project, and to provide your input, visit the project webpage for more information: www.beheardnewwest.ca/uptowncycling

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Mike Anderson
Acting Manager, Transportation
City of New Westminster
604-527-4654