New Westminster, often referred to as “The Royal City,” is one of the oldest and most historically rich cities in British Columbia. Located along the banks of the Fraser River, it holds a special place in Canada’s development as a province and a nation. With a population of around 78,000 as of 2021, the city remains a vital hub in the Metro Vancouver region, offering a unique blend of heritage, community life, and urban renewal.
Founded in 1859 by the Royal Engineers, New Westminster was chosen as the first capital of the Colony of British Columbia. Queen Victoria herself named the city after Westminster in London, granting it a regal connection that continues to define its identity. This connection earned New Westminster the enduring nickname “The Royal City.” The city’s original role as capital ended in 1866 when the united colonies of Vancouver Island and British Columbia named Victoria as the new capital. Despite the change, New Westminster continued to play a central role in the province’s history and governance.
The city’s layout was one of the first examples of modern urban planning in Western Canada. Its streets were designed in a grid system, and many of the original buildings and historic homes still stand today, especially in neighborhoods like Queen’s Park and the West End. This preservation of architectural heritage is a source of pride for residents and a point of interest for visitors and historians alike.
Geographically, New Westminster is strategically located. It is surrounded by the cities of Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Surrey and is connected by major highways, including Highway 1 and the Pattullo Bridge. The city is also served by the SkyTrain’s Expo Line, making it a well-connected commuter destination for those working in downtown Vancouver. Public transit access and walkability have made it attractive for people seeking a balance between urban life and community feel.
The city’s neighborhoods each have distinct identities. Downtown New Westminster has transformed into a vibrant residential and commercial hub, with the revitalized River Market and scenic waterfront walkway drawing both locals and tourists. Sapperton, another key area, is home to the Royal Columbian Hospital, one of the busiest trauma hospitals in British Columbia. Queensborough, located on Lulu Island, has seen major residential and commercial development, contributing to the city’s growing economy.
Education and health care play central roles in New Westminster’s community structure. Douglas College, with its main campus in the city, offers a variety of post-secondary programs and contributes to the local economy. The newly rebuilt New Westminster Secondary School is one of the largest high schools in Western Canada, reflecting the city’s commitment to education and youth development.
New Westminster is also a legal hub, hosting facilities of the B.C. Supreme Court in its downtown core. This makes it a focal point for legal proceedings and contributes to its administrative importance in the province. The New Westminster Police Department maintains public safety, with community-focused initiatives enhancing local trust.
The city embraces culture through numerous festivals and events, including the Hyack Festival, Fridays on Front, and an annual Pride celebration. These gatherings foster a strong sense of community and highlight the city’s diversity. Cultural institutions like the Anvil Centre offer art exhibitions, live performances, and public programs that enrich local life.
In recent years, New Westminster has undergone significant urban redevelopment. Residential towers, improved transit infrastructure, and mixed-use developments continue to reshape the city skyline. These changes reflect its evolution from a colonial capital to a dynamic and modern city that honors its past while building for the future.
New Westminster continues to attract new residents, businesses, and tourists who are drawn to its rich history, convenient location, and strong community values. As Metro Vancouver grows, the city remains a central figure in shaping the region’s cultural, social, and economic landscape.
