The Patio Series feat. New Westminster

TransLink and HUB have teamed up to highlight patios across Metro Vancouver for the next few weeks. This week we’re checking out what New Westminster has to offer. 

In June, New Westminster residents witnessed restaurant and pub patio extensions pop up and the installation of additional parklets throughout the City intended to support business recovery efforts. “The City of New Westminster is committed to maintaining and improving upon a quality, people-centered public realm, as doing so supports vibrant, active, and healthy streets, which in turn has a positive impact on local business and the community as a whole,” said a report to council.

We spoke with Jorden Foss from Steel & Oak, who was able to convert two parking stalls out front of the brewery into a parklet patio space with 4 dining tables. Not only did the new space help business but it also made street life better for everyone. “The patio has likely saved our summer business during COVID as it has allowed people to be outside rather than in our cozy tasting room. It has also made our space more accessible as it has widened our sidewalk and made more space for folks in wheelchairs or people with strollers”, stated Jordan.

Jorden added that the percentage of people who get to Steel & Oak on foot, bike, and transit has increased since the pandemic, “About 60% of our customers arrive on foot and we now get a lot of cyclists on the weekend. They love that they can ‘monitor’ their bikes outside while they sit and have a beer. It's been a game-changer for us”.

Getting there

Bike the BC Parkway and make an adventure of it, or sit back on the Expo line and go check out some of New West’s parklets and patios. 

Steel and Oak, 1319 third Avenue

As the days get shorter Steel and Oak have installed some lighting so you can enjoy the patio while still being able to see what beer you have in your hand or who is sitting across from you.

Another Beer Co Brewing, #11 – 30 Capilano Way

ABC brewing love bikes, you can even watch your bike while enjoying a cold one on the patio. Their patio is also covered.. So patio season can continue into the Fall! 

Kozak Ukrainian Eatery, 444 6th Street & 5077 Victoria Drive, East Van

Enjoy some homemade Ukrainian grub and enjoy their space outdoors! 

Craft Café, #105 – 810 Quayside Drive

Brunch, coffee, and water views on Craft Cafe’s patio, what more can you ask for?

Have you visited all the parklets yet? 

• Uptown, in front of 708 6th Avenue 
• Downtown, in front of 550 Columbia Street 
• West End, in front of 621 12th Street -
• Uptown, the intersection of Belmont and 6th Streets, adjacent to 524 Sixth Street
• Sapperton, in front of 459 East Columbia Street

These patios and parklets are just a few of the ways the City of New Westminster has created more space for people to move as part of their Streets for People in 2020 initiative. HUB Cycling and Happy City are collaborating to host fun, family-friendly pop ups and other events until October 12th to raise awareness and support for the initiative.

Want to learn more, get your bike tuned up and win prizes? Join us at one of our events! Full activation schedule on our website!