The Queensborough community is the driving force behind this weekend's grand opening celebrations for several new park facilities.
The City of New Westminster and community partners are joining forces to celebrate the opening of new parks and trails in Queensborough. Various celebrations are being held at four sites: the South Dyke Road trail and greenway, the Sukh Sagar Park, the Boro All Wheel Park and the Queensborough neighbourhood park at Derwent Way and Ewen Avenue.
Dean Gibson, the city's director of parks, culture and recreation, said the city had no budget for the grand opening celebrations, but community groups and residents have rallied behind the cause.
"It has been a community effort," he said. "It's been a really neat event that way."
All of the improvements, totaling $5 million, have been funded through casino funds.
The Queensborough parks and trails opening celebration includes a variety of activities, including:
* South Dyke Road trail and greenway (at Thompson's Landing) - guided historical interpretive walks along the waterfront. Dogs and their owners can take part in a walk beginning at 8:30 a.m. for dogs, and people of all ages can participate in a walk beginning at 9 a.m.
* Sukh Sagar Park, located at Wood Street and Ewen Avenue, features family activities and refreshments from 10:30 a.m. to noon.
* Boro All Wheel Park (920 Ewen Ave.) features demonstrations, entertainment and a barbecue (for a nominal fee). Events will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. and the official opening of all four parks takes place at 2 p.m.
* Queensborough neighbourhood park, located at Derwent Way and Ewen Avenue, features a performance by ventriloquist Kellie Haines at 7 p.m., and a basketball challenge, outdoor fitness equipment demonstration and exhibit by Artists in the Boro at 8 p.m. Bring a lawn chair and blanket and enjoy an outdoor movie (Over the Hedge) and free popcorn.
All activities will take place rain or shine, except for the outdoor movie.
