Miyíw̓ts Park

Miyíw̓ts Park is a waterfront park in Squamish that reconnects the community to the Mamquam Blind Channel while restoring ecological function and supporting long-term climate resilience. 

Located on the traditional unceded territory of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) Nation, the park sits within the Squamish River watershed and the Átl’ḵa7tsem / Howe Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region. Its name, Miyíw̓ts—meaning “riverbank” or “mouth of the river”—reflects the cultural and ecological history of a place where freshwater meets the sea. 

PWL led the master planning and phased implementation of the park, shaping both its ecological framework and its role as a key public space within the Waterfront Landing neighbourhood. Guided by Green Shores principles and flood protection strategies, the design integrates shoreline restoration with a layered, nature-based approach to coastal resilience. 

A naturalized foreshore, restored marsh, and intertidal habitat enhance biodiversity while supporting flood storage and shoreline stability. A future coastal dike is integrated into landforms, pathways, and gathering spaces—transforming essential infrastructure into an accessible and continuous public waterfront. 

The park is designed as both a destination and a connector, linking neighbourhoods to the waterfront and to downtown Squamish through a network of paths, green streets, and regional trails. Spaces for play, gathering, and quiet reflection support everyday use while maintaining a strong relationship to the surrounding landscape. 

Through the integration of ecology, infrastructure, and public life, Miyíw̓ts Park illustrates how waterfront landscapes can support climate adaptation while strengthening connections between people and place.