When Expo '86 hit the pavement, many markets popped up across the Lower Mainland's waterfronts - and the Westminster Quay Public Market was no exception.
Be it interest or economic hard times, the market steadily deteriorated over the years - the dock's crown jewel was beginning to tarnish. Then in 2008, a change in ownership came with a significant transformation in the vision for the market. The market closed for two years and re-opened as the River Market.
"After redeveloping the building's infrastructure, we focused on a strategic tenant mix," Mia Ciric, River Market's general manager, told The Record. "Furthermore, as we saw the River Market becoming the neighbourhood hub, we knew we would need to place high value on both the market's culture as well as the community of New Westminster."
The vision came with making the first level being all about food, and the second level a place to learn complicated circus moves for all ages, a network hub for businesses and spots for businesses to rent out offices on a temporary basis.
"It's a special place right on the water in the heart of New Westminster," she said. "All River Market businesses are working as a team in developing a unique experience for all the visitors and the community. We are a driven team dedicated to exceeding our goals."
For more information about the entertainment and dining hub, visit rivermarket.ca.
