Westminster Pier Park in New Westminster, BC
There are many hot spots in Metro Vancouver, but few rival the beauty of Westminster Pier Park. Located half on land and half on water, this stunning waterfront park offers visitors an unforgettable Fraser River experience. From the 325 meter festival lawn, to the waterfront boardwalk and concession, there is so much to see and do at this unique park.
This unique park features several design elements that pay tribute to the area’s rich history. For example, Hinge Loungers are pivoting chaise chairs inspired by hand-trucks used on the docks. A weathered-steel Memory Band, laser-cut with historical references ranging from First Nations to Woodlands Hospital, runs the length of the park. Old telephone poles create a “Pile Forest” mimicking what it would look like under the docks, and a reconstructed century-old market building provides a focal point.
During the project, M2K worked diligently to incorporate sustainable features throughout the park and to address the challenges of construction on a wharf situated over the Fraser River. The project required demolition of existing creosote timber wharf decks and 2.5 acres of new pier construction, all on pilings. To mitigate the impact of construction on the water, M2K incorporated a hydraulic sluice system to control sediment and erosion, and used innovative dredging techniques to minimize impacts to the Fraser River and surrounding environment.
M2K also designed several special features for the park. The “W” shaped Wow Westminster public art installation is a popular spot for photos and selfies, while the iconic love locks are a reminder of the area’s romantic past. The pier is also the starting point for the Riverwalk to the City’s Downtown District. This popular walk allows visitors to experience the riverbank’s natural and cultural attractions, including the re-opened Traders Row public market, a number of restaurants and bars, and a refurbished historic hotel.
The pier is easily accessible by foot, bike, or public transportation. Skytrain’s New Westminster station is a short walk away, and buses on the 22nd Street and Columbia routes stop directly at the pier. Thames River Services and multiple cruise tours depart from the pier regularly, with hop-on hop-off options available on many of the city’s tour offerings.
Westminster Pier Park’s 10th anniversary celebration is taking place on Friday, June 17. Gather by the river with family and friends for picnicking on the festival lawn, arts and crafts, activities and giveaways, and a movie showing on the big screen. Voting is open until May 31 to decide which of four movies (Croods 2; Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle; Sing 2; or Spider-Man: No Way Home) will be shown. The event is free and family-friendly, and food and drink will be sold by the concession. For more information on the event, visit here. Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair. The party will conclude with an outdoor screening of Spider-Man: No Way Home at 9:30 p.m. This event is part of the City of New Westminster’s Celebrate New West initiative to connect residents and visitors to the community.