New Westminster city council to vote on riverfront park revitalization

New Westminster city councillors will vote on a proposal for a one-year pilot project to help revitalize Westminster Pier Park Monday.

A council report says the initiative, which includes increasing standards of maintenance and launching park liaison officers, will “address challenging behaviours and acts of vandalism that are impacting perceptions of public safety” in the park.

The report says between 2024 and 2025, the city has covered over $300,000 in damages to washrooms and playground equipment.

The proposed “Activation and Community Re-Engagement” for Westminster Pier Park would cost an estimated $71,500 for park events, $30,000 for grounds maintenance, and $318,000 to employ park liaison officers and security.

Meanwhile, it says the park stands apart from the city’s broader Crises Response Pilot Project to address homelessness, substance use, and mental health.

“Westminster Pier Park are not directly linked to these crises and require a distinct, focused response to better support the public’s attendance and ongoing enjoyment of the park.”

If approved, funding would come from the existing budget, reallocations, and vacancy savings.

Council will meet at 6 p.m. Monday.

—With files from Sonia Aslam