New Westminster – The City of New Westminster is excited to announce the opening of the final segment of the westward expansion of Westminster Pier Park, introducing a vibrant new destination along the Fraser River. Located between the Sixth Street overpass and Fraser River Discovery Centre, this newly completed section (previously referred to as “Park B” and "Park C") expands the riverfront space for recreation, community gatherings, and everyday enjoyment.

The opening marks the completion of the westward expansion envisioned in the City's 2019 Riverfront Park Master Plan. Developed by the City and informed by an extensive three-phase public engagement process, the Plan envisioned two new park spaces and a Riverfront Esplanade connection at the westward side of Westminster Pier Park that all together add approximately two acres of new parkland to Downtown New Westminster. The expansion builds on the success of Westminster Pier Park, creating new experiences and programming opportunities while strengthening connections along the riverfront.

"The westward expansion of Westminster Pier Park marks an exciting milestone in the continued evolution of New Westminster's riverfront,” said Mayor Patrick Johnstone. “This long-envisioned space brings years of planning and community input to life, changing a parking lot into a welcoming place where people of all ages and abilities can gather, stay active, and enjoy the Fraser River. It reflects our commitment to strengthening community connections and building a more livable, accessible city."

Built on top of a three-story parkade, the park expansion is centered around a dynamic festival plaza serving as a gathering space that features seasonal water jets and a performance stage with a shade sail, surrounded by two open lawn areas, and tiered seating. The new park also offers an outdoor fitness area, ping pong tables, picnic tables, a dog relief area, and more than 100 newly planted trees. A multi-use pathway connects Westminster Pier Park to the Riverfront Esplanade, making it easier than ever to walk, wheel, and cycle along the quay.

Work will continue over the summer to complete two accessible public washrooms adjacent to the Sixth Street play area for fall 2026.

A significant feature within the new park is a public art installation by Indigenous artists Brent Sparrow and Kelly Cannell, consisting of two cedar and aluminum sculptures that represent traditional Musqueam Salish river markers. They are carved with designs that reflect the movement of the river and emphasize the cultural and ecological importance of the sockeye salmon and sturgeon. Titled Ebb and Flow, the artwork honors the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓-speaking peoples and their stewardship of the lands and waters on which New Westminster was built, and serves as a symbol of Indigenous connection and storytelling along the Fraser River.  

"Every detail of Westminster Pier Park’s expansion was thoughtfully designed to create something truly special for the community. It offers a variety of new experiences, from quiet places to sit, socialize and watch the river, to vibrant gathering spaces that seamlessly knit the waterfront together," said Erika Mashig, Deputy Director of Parks, Planning, and Policy.  “Beyond the active amenities and event spaces, planting more than 100 trees further greens the city, creating a cooler, more resilient and inviting riverfront for generations to come.”

The westward expansion of Westminster Pier Park was delivered as a partnership between the City and Bosa Development. The City invested $7.6 million through its capital budget to construct the new park above the private parkade.

Learn more about the westward expansion project and accompanying residential developments at 660 Quayside Drive, visit the project page here: newwestcity.ca/riverfrontvision/articles/3946.php

Celebrate the opening

The City of New Westminster invites the community to celebrate the official opening and completion of the westward expansion on Wednesday, August 5, from 3:00 – 8:00 pm.

The free event will feature family-friendly activities, food trucks, live entertainment, community recreation programming, and a cold plunge pop-up from Tality Wellness. Representatives from the City, Bosa Development, Rennie Group, and project partners will participate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 7:00 pm, followed by a performance from country music singer-songwriter Danielle Ryan.

For more event details, visit the City’s Calendar of Events: newwestcity.ca/events

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Media contact: 

Melissa Nilan
Communications Coordinator