Residents, airport workers and visitors now have a brand-new community amenity on sqʷsaθən[1], also known as Sea Island.
YVR and Musqueam came together with our partners to name and open the pathway in the Templeton Corridor on May 17, 2022. The pathway design was developed in collaboration with the community and makes creative use of a parcel of land complete with new multi-use pathways to connect the local active transportation network, Canada Line stations and the popular Iona Beach Regional Park. It also provides an enhanced greenspace and natural buffer between the airport lands and nearby residences. The pathway is commemorative of our past and future—one that includes Musqueam, the airport, and City of Richmond as well as the Burkeville community. The pathway is special and significant for us in more ways than one.
As YVR and Musqueam mark the fifth year of our Sustainability & Friendship Agreement, it is an honour that Musqueam gave their blessing and permission to name the pathway in the language of the Musqueam people. The name, xʷq̓axintəl̕ ct (Walking Together), is reflective of our relationship, which is based on friendship and respect to achieve a sustainable and mutually beneficial future for the community and the lands on which we operate.
The pathway also signifies collaboration. We engaged with the Burkeville community on the creation of this space and worked together with Musqueam to identify and plant hundreds of trees and native plant species to enhance the natural ecosystem and habitats of the corridor and surrounding area.
During the ceremonial event to name and open the pathway, Musqueam guided a Call to Witness protocol. The protocol takes place when important work is underway, with four witnesses called forward to remember the work and share back to their communities. While everyone at the event was a witness of the work, if clarity is needed these are the four that will be looked upon to answer questions about what happened.
We are pleased that this pathway is now open and look forward to continued work with Musqueam and the community on ways to bring our history to life through this shared greenspace.