Project Update
The Fourth Street Stairs are now open!
The new upgraded concrete staircase connects Columbia Street to the Front Street Mews, providing improved access to shops, cafes, the River Market, and the Riverfront Esplanade. New lighting has also been added to improve safety and visibility, making it easier to move between the Downtown and the Riverfront. The remainder of the project — including the new basketball courts and a skateboard spot located under the parkade — will be completed in April. A vibrant graphic pattern will be applied to the ground surfaces during this final phase, adding a punch of colour to the whole area.
Background
In 2017, temporary wooden stairs were installed on the west side of the parkade ramp at Fourth Street, creating a north-south pedestrian connection from Columbia Street to the east end of the Front Street Mews. Following installation of the stairs, City staff engaged various stakeholders in the design process for plans to install permanent concrete stairs and ideas for a programmable community space underneath the parkade structure.
Goals of the project include:
- improving an important north-south pedestrian connection in this area of the downtown;
- providing a safe and inviting public space; and
- transforming an under-utilized, outdoor weather-protected space into a valuable amenity for community events, gathering and day-to-day use.
What’s happening
The City is aware that the temporary stairs are approaching the end of their serviceable life. We have also heard from business operators and residents in Downtown New Westminster that this area of Columbia Street and Front Street could use some aesthetic improvements. Click here to read more about the City’s work to make improvements and address concerns in the Downtown.
The scope of this project will include:
- Cast-in-place concrete stairs, complete with guardrails and viewing/resting platform;
- Pedestrian lighting;
- Treatment of the hillside to mitigate invasive species and improve sight lines;
- Stormwater drainage improvements; and
- Structural repairs to the existing retaining wall along Columbia Street.
- Street style skate spot and half court basketball feature
The new concrete stairs are now open and the remainder of the project – including the new basketball courts, a skateboard spot located under the parkade and graphic patterning on the ground surfaces – will be completed in the coming months. Planning for an opening celebration is underway! Take a walk and come check it out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have plans for greenery, shrubs and/or plants in the area?
While only the stairs are finished as of Spring 2026, the final phase includes other items, including two small rain gardens with plants at the bottom of the slope. There will also be a vibrant graphic pattern added to surfaces in the final phases of the work.
How much was spent on this project?
$2.4M was approved as part of the 2025 Capital Budget.
Will there be other directional signage to point people towards the Front Street Mews and businesses in the area?
Yes. Directional signage is part of our Downtown Wayfinding Plan and will be installed as the project nears completion.