Vancouver Waterfront Park will open in exactly a month to the excitement of the public that’s waited more than a century to step foot on the property.
With the countdown beginning, the city has announced the details of the Sept. 29 celebration, including the formal openings of the first two businesses on the waterfront: WildFin American Grill and Twigs Bistro and Martini Bar.
The community will have its first chance to grab a bite and drink during the public celebration, which begins at 11 a.m. and is expected to attract thousands.
The Waterfront Vancouver, as the project has been named, will feature a number of family activities, including Oregon Mermaid face painting, a sandy area where children can play, and live music from local bands The Pearls and The Juleps. The festivities will conclude at 3 p.m.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony will last an hour, beginning at 11:30 a.m., and will include speeches from elected officials and project stakeholders. Once the ceremony ends, the waterfront will officially open to the public for exploration and enjoyment.
Because of the expected large turnout, the city will provide a shuttle service from multiple parking areas. Specific details will be released prior to the event. The waterfront is also accessible via the newly expanded Waterfront Renaissance Trail walking and bike path and C-Tran.
The park is just the first phase of redevelopment for the waterfront, but Gramor Development hasn’t announced opening dates for the remainder of the project.
“The opening of the new waterfront park and pier is a major event for our city,” said Julie Hannon, Parks and Recreation director. “This beautiful destination park will be an exciting space for people to play and relax in. With the extension of the Renaissance Trail and other amenities, it will offer excellent recreational opportunities for residents from Vancouver and beyond.”
