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New Westminster’s new strategic plan prioritizes people, centred in economic growth, prosperity, and community belonging.
New Westminster is the Lower Mainland’s heart and home to 80,000 residents who revel in the region’s heritage and bustling commercial areas and community. Metro Vancouver grew up around New Westminster’s 15 square kilometres, resulting in the city’s unique historical roots.
“That means that as the community grows, the City will place a greater emphasis on objectives and outcomes that lift up the community,” says Blair Fryer, Senior Manager of Economic Development and Communications. “Our focus is on sustainable employment, local spending and procurement, livable and vibrant commercial areas, and a nurturing and supportive environment for businesses.”
For decades, New Westminster has been defined by its resilience, particularly when it comes to supporting a progressive and productive business environment, including B2B and G2B initiatives. The city’s retention and recruitment efforts focus on education, healthcare, and technology and creative workers, because these are the sectors residents can depend on for good, family-supporting wages, fostering robust participation in the circular economy.
Another key area of economic development is live-work balance, which includes mobility and accessibility for business travel and abundant recreational green space. New Westminster boasts five SkyTrain stations, as well as proximity to YVR, major highways and rail.
As New Westminster continues to grow and make a name for itself alongside surrounding communities like Vancouver, Burnaby and Surrey, its action-focused leadership remains agile with a finger on the pulse of what comes next. “We are always looking toward the future, whether through a climate lens or when we look at technology and innovation powering the future,” Fryer says.
New Westminster’s City Council declared a climate emergency in 2019 and set forward a Climate Action Budgeting Framework that includes Seven Bold Steps to move New Westminster toward a zero-carbon future by 2050. New Westminster also features its own civic-owned dark fibre network, BridgeNet to support business growth. “We are not just dreaming about the future,” Fryer says. “We are putting the right elements into place when it comes to attracting and empowering creative and technology sectors and new business.
“New Westminster’s resilience through thick and thin is a testament to our community’s collaborative spirit.”
Learn more | newwestcity.ca
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