New Westminster, B.C. - The City of New Westminster is updating its Parks and Recreation Plan, which will guide priorities and investment in parks and recreation for the next 10 years and outline aspirational plans to 2050.

“New Westminster has so much to offer residents and visitors, from destination parks and natural areas, to a diverse range of recreational facilities and programs,” said Mayor Patrick Johnstone. “As the city has a limited land base and continues to grow, we want to make sure we keep innovating and expanding our parks and recreation offerings to continue to meet the needs and desires of the community.”

City staff are working with B.C.-based consultants Urban Systems and Happy Cities on the new plan, which is named People, Parks and Play: Connections for All, highlighting the essential role that parks and recreation play in building connected, healthy, resilient communities. 

“Access to parks and recreation is vital to the wellbeing of individuals and the community as a whole. The updated Parks and Recreation Plan for the City of New Westminster will set the course for our growing and changing community, ensuring everyone experiences the benefits of connecting and contributing, be it with their friends, neighbours, or to the natural environment,” said Dean Gibson, Director of Parks and Recreation.

City parks and recreation programs and spaces help everyone stay active and connected to their community, but they can do more to meet the diverse needs of the community. In addition to community health and connections, parks and recreation play a key role in supporting climate resilience, reconciliation, equity, and inclusion in New Westminster.

The City is asking for residents of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to describe how they're currently using parks and recreation services and facilities, provide feedback on how well the City has been doing, and help identify where the gaps are. This input will shape the direction of parks and recreation services for the next 10 years and beyond.

The first round of public engagement for People, Parks and Play: Connections for All launches today and will run until late May 2024. Community members are encouraged to visit Be Heard New West to fill out the online survey (open until May 28) and register for the virtual public workshop on May 22, 7:00 – 8:30 pm. Or, share their thoughts and priorities in-person at one of the following pop-up events:

• River Market Boardwalk (near the Tugger Play Area) - April 27, 1:00 – 4:00 pm
• təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre - April 29, 3:00 – 7:00 pm
• Ryall Park/Queensborough Community Centre - May 9, 2:00 – 5:00 pm
• Sapperton Plaza - May 11, 12:00 – 3:00 pm
• Simcoe Park - May 15, 2:00 – 5:00 pm
• New West Farmers Market (Tipperary Park) -  June 6, 3:00 – 7:00 pm

Additionally, the City will be hosting a family-friendly Fun & Games Fest on May 4, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm, in the Moody Park South Field, located between the outdoor pool and the Youth Centre. This outdoor event will offer residents the opportunity to provide input on the plan while connecting with other community members and enjoying ping pong, mini sports, a photo booth, bubbles, snacks, and more.

The community will have another opportunity to provide feedback on the developing plan in winter 2024/2025. The final plan is anticipated to be completed by summer 2025.

To stay up to date on the project and for details on the many opportunities to get involved, visit: beheardnewwest.ca/people-parks-play

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Media Contact:

Dean Gibson
Director of Parks & Recreation
City of New Westminster
604-527-4628 |