A new chapter is unfolding on New Westminster’s waterfront. The long-anticipated redevelopment of 660 Quayside Drive—formerly known as 660 Front Street—is set to bring transformative change to the city’s downtown riverfront. Now under the direction of Bosa Development, the landmark project known as Pier West aims to turn this key stretch along the Fraser River into a vibrant, mixed-use destination combining housing, green space, public amenities, and commercial energy.
With its prime riverfront location, rich planning history, and alignment with the City’s ambitious waterfront vision, this development is positioned to become a defining feature of New Westminster’s urban landscape.
From Industrial Past to Dynamic Future
A Site with Deep Roots and Bold Potential
Originally owned by Larco Investments Ltd., the 3.5-hectare site has been earmarked for redevelopment since the mid-1990s. Early plans approved in 1996 and updated in 2005 envisioned five towers and above-grade parking, but shifting priorities, urban design trends, and public input led to a dramatic redesign. Today’s vision is shaped by collaboration between the City of New Westminster, Larco, and design consultants—and now championed by Bosa Development.
Where once there were five towers and a large podium, the current plan consolidates residential density into three elegant towers ranging from 28 to 45 storeys, freeing up space for open parks, public esplanades, and unobstructed river views. The new design reflects a desire for a more human-scale, pedestrian-friendly waterfront while supporting economic vibrancy.
Key Features of the Pier West Concept
Residential Living with a View
Pier West will include approximately 800 residential units, primarily housed in three slender towers. The tallest, Tower 2, will rise 45 storeys and serve as a signature landmark for the city’s skyline. Family-friendly townhomes at the base of Tower 3, with front doors opening to the waterfront esplanade, will ensure active, welcoming street-level spaces.
A Hotel and Commercial Vibrancy
Plans include a 150-room hotel, either in Tower 1 or 2, envisioned as a boost to tourism and a complement to the nearby Anvil Centre. Commercial spaces integrated into the podiums of the western towers will animate the esplanade, support local businesses, and provide services for residents and visitors.
Childcare and Community Amenities
The proposal features a 6,000 sq ft childcare facility adjacent to the expanded Westminster Pier Park, to meet growing demand for early childhood care downtown. This facility, offered at a subsidized rate to a licensed provider, demonstrates a commitment to supporting families and long-term livability.
Green Space and River Access: At the Heart of the Plan
A Major Park Expansion
Perhaps the most notable public benefit is the dedication of approximately two acres of parkland—roughly one-third of the site—to expand Westminster Pier Park. This space, known as Park C, will offer a mix of open lawns, shaded groves, social seating areas, and features like a pavilion, dog run, and water elements. Though a full build-out is estimated to exceed the current budget, a phased implementation plan ensures early access to green space while setting the stage for future enhancements.
Connecting the Waterfront
The development will complete a continuous esplanade linking Westminster Pier Park with the River Market and Fraser River Discovery Centre. This 30-foot-wide multi-modal pathway will provide space for walking, cycling, and leisure, designed to mimic the iconic “saw tooth” edge of the adjacent park.
*Photos by City of New Westminster
Infrastructure, Access, and Environmental Integration
Transportation and Traffic
An integrated circulation plan realigns Quayside Drive into a waterfront loop with a roundabout near the Discovery Centre, while Begbie Street will extend to meet the riverfront. A key traffic study confirmed that the downtown street network can support the proposed development without major disruptions, eliminating the need for an overpass at Sixth Street—a move that also preserves river views and avoids parkland impact.
Underground parking across two levels will accommodate residents, visitors, and 80 public stalls, replacing the once-planned above-grade structure with a flood-resilient design that preserves sightlines and pedestrian experience.
Noise and Rail Interface
Proximity to railway lines is addressed through a series of at-grade crossings, physical safety barriers, and ongoing consultation with the Railway Association of Canada. The City’s goal of achieving whistle cessation in the area aligns with design plans to maintain safety without sacrificing tranquility or aesthetics.
A Community-Shaped Vision
Ongoing Engagement and Feedback
From open houses and public surveys to presentations before advisory panels and community organizations, the Pier West project has been shaped by extensive community consultation. Concerns about density, river views, and public space have informed meaningful revisions to the plan. This collaborative process has yielded a development that honors both urban growth and community values.
Looking Ahead: From Planning to Reality
The Pier West project broke ground in January 2020 and is projected to complete by Spring 2025. Construction is phased west to east, beginning with Tower 1 and the public esplanade. Each phase unlocks new amenities—from commercial spaces and public parking to park improvements and a childcare facility.
This landmark project represents more than just new housing; it is a thoughtful reimagining of New Westminster’s riverfront, rooted in history and rising toward the future.
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