A revamped parklet on Belmont Street is open for business in Uptown New Westminster.
In June, council directed staff to proceed with the redesign and construction of the Belmont Street parklet. First created at this location in July 2016, the space was recently redesigned to address neighbourhood concerns and undesirable activities in parklet.
“For the most part, the physical installation of the new parklet is complete and fully operational. Staff are monitoring on a daily basis and will continue to make refinements as needed,” James Doan, the city’s manager of community development, said in an email to the Record. “Feedback received so far has been very positive.”
According to Doan, the city and the Uptown Business Association are continuing to work on options for programming the space over the summer and early fall.
Last summer, more than 120 residents, businesses and business patrons signed a petition expressing “distress” over the activities in the parklet and seeking action from the city to address their concerns. The city included $15,000 in this year’s budget to revamp the space.
The new design includes a smaller deck area, expanded greenspace, including more planted areas and trees, the replacement of tables and chairs with fixed seating, and the replacement of concrete barriers around the parklet with tree planters. Increased enforcement of city bylaws, such as no smoking and drinking, improved lighting levels at night, and more programming for family-friendly activities are also planned for the space that will be limited to use from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
