BACKGROUND
To support Council’s 2023-2026 Strategic Priority of Safe Movement of People and the Seven Bold Steps for Climate Action - Car Light Community and Quality People-Centred Public Realm - the City is improving East Sixth Avenue after construction of təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre. The City ensured that any necessary work on the təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre site was complete before the improvements to East Sixth Avenue started. By coordinating the two projects, we minimize disruptions.
During construction of təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre, temporary changes on East Sixth Avenue facilitated construction works. These included:
- A temporary bi-directional bike lane added to East Sixth Avenue between McBride Boulevard and Cumberland Street to replace the closed Crosstown Greenway. The temporary bike lane provided connection around the site.
- The bus shelter that was on East Sixth Avenue next to the previous community centre moved for the construction of the new entryway to təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre off of East Sixth Avenue.
- The median at Glenbrook Drive was removed for the construction of the new entryway to the Centre.
- The left turn arrow phase for vehicles at McBride Boulevard was turned on during the Columbia Street closure in late spring 2024 (to help manage traffic impacts from the Pattullo Bridge project). The City continues to monitor this change.
Now, the City of New Westminster will focus on creating a better walking, cycling, and transit experience for this corridor.
CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
Construction is anticipated to begin in February 2026. A detailed construction letter regarding dates and traffic impacts will be sent in advance to residents and businesses in the area.
For the most up to date information, please visit the Roadworks & Construction page.
WHAT'S HAPPENING
To better support walking, cycling, and transit around the təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre, the City of New Westminster is making changes to East Sixth Avenue between McBride Boulevard and Cumberland Street. This project was identified in the Active Transportation Network Plan (ATNP) adopted by Council in 2022.
Improvements to East Sixth Avenue
The planned upgrades (displayed in Figure 1) are as follows:
- Intersection safety at Cumberland Street: A new traffic signal will be installed at Cumberland Street and East Sixth Avenue to provide reliable and safe crossing opportunities for people and establish clear right-of-way for people driving. To accommodate turn lanes at Cumberland Street and East Sixth Avenue, parking will be prohibited on Cumberland Street south of East Sixth Avenue for a distance of 70m, and on East Sixth Avenue between Glenbrook Drive and Cumberland Street.
- Intersection safety at Glenbrook Drive: A new median island and flashing beacons will be installed at Glenbrook Drive.
- Bus stop: The westbound bus stop will be placed close to the front door of the təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre.
- Bi-directional protected lane: Changes will be made to the bi-directional protected lane on the north side of East Sixth Avenue, between McBride Boulevard and Cumberland Street, in order to better accommodate bikes and other mobility devices to the təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre.
- Additional upgrades: Curb ramp improvements will be made at McBride Boulevard, Glenbrook Drive, Cumberland Street, and Cumberland Street at East Seventh Avenue. New lighting, signage, and paint will be added in the corridor as well.
FAQs
Why is the City removing parking from East Sixth Avenue and Cumberland Street?
The road space currently used as parking on East Sixth Avenue is being reallocated for the eastbound and northbound left-turn lanes. We understand concerns about the reallocation of parking. This change is being made for the safety and benefit of whole community and to address the impacts of traffic on the neighbourhood.
Why is a traffic signal being installed to replace the 4-Way Stop at Cumberland Street and East Sixth Avenue?
The City has heard motor vehicle impacts in this neighbourhood are significant, as well as concerns about the safety of people (especially school-aged children) crossing this intersection. There will be a new signal installed at East Sixth Avenue and Cumberland Street to provide reliable and safe crossing opportunities for people. The signal also supports bus speed and reliability and establishes clearer right-of-way for people driving, particularly in peak times. The City will monitor vehicle operations along the corridor to determine if adjustments are necessary.
Is the City going to keep the left turn arrow at East Sixth Avenue and McBride Boulevard?
The City will be keeping the left turn phase at McBride Boulevard for the time being. The City will monitor vehicle operations along the corridor to determine if adjustments are necessary.
Why is the bi-directional bike lane staying on East Sixth Avenue?
Council has Strategic Priorities and Bold Steps for Climate Action. One priority is the Safe Movement of People. The bike connection along East Sixth Avenue is in the Active Transportation Network Plan (ATNP) as a supporting route to connect people conveniently to təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre and Queen’s Park. The City has intended to rebuild the north side of East Sixth Avenue (curb, pavement, sidewalk, boulevard) as part of the təməsew̓txʷ project, so it is most efficient to implement the bi-directional bike lane as part of the same project. There are also guidelines for how to design bike lanes next to major streets. To ensure people of all ages and abilities feel comfortable and safe biking to the new təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre, the bi-directional bike lane is being improved.
Because construction is focused on the north side of East Sixth Avenue next to təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre, there isn't opportunity to add a bike lane on the other side of East Sixth Avenue. Instead, the bi-directional bike lane will be improved next to təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre.
CONTACT
If you have any immediate questions or concerns, please contact Lacey Hirtle, Transportation Engineer, at .