New improvements make walking, cycling, and rolling safer and easier

NEW WESTMINSTER, BC – TransLink and the City of New Westminster have completed major upgrades to a 737-metre stretch of the BC Parkway along Stewardson Way, between River Drive and 14th Street. These enhancements are designed to improve safety, comfort, and accessibility along this vital active transportation corridor.

"Upgrades to the BC Parkway bring long-lasting benefits to communities across Metro Vancouver," says TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn. "Whether you're cycling, rolling, walking, or running, these improvements make it easier and smoother to choose active transportation every day.”

Key upgrades include:

• A widened pathway with separate lanes for cyclists and pedestrians making it comfortable and convenient for all modes of active transportation
• Improved lighting and street-level visibility for public safety
• Greater separation between BC Parkway and heavy vehicle traffic on Stewardson Way for improved comfort
• Safety upgrades to the intersection of Stewardson Way and River Drive, Stewardson Way and 5th Avenue, and Stewardson Way and 14th Street

"The completion of the BC Parkway renovations fills an important transportation gap in our community," says New Westminster Mayor Patrick Johnstone. "In working together, we have transformed this vital connection, improving safety and comfort of all road users. These improvements are a testament to our shared commitment to creating a safer and more connected community for everyone."

This project aligns with New Westminster City Council’s 2023-2026 Strategic Priorities Plan by improving the safety and accessibility of a key transportation route. It also meets the City’s Active Transportation Network Plan objectives to improve the safety, comfort, and convenience of active transportation infrastructure.

The upgrades were made possible through collaboration with Southern Railway of British Columbia, which provided access to a key section of land, and is funded by TransLink with contributions from the City of New Westminster.

More information:
City of New Westminster's Strategic Priorities Plan

Media downloads:
Before and after photos of the BC Parkway improvements
B-roll footage of the BC Parkway

Media contact:
TransLink Media Relations
E: media@translink.ca

City of New Westminster
Melissa Nilan, Communications Coordinator
E: mnilan@newwestcity.ca