Langley plans a rooftop park with mini golf and amenities atop the Jericho reservoir in Willoughby to serve the growing neighborhood
New Urban Park Planned at Jericho Reservoir in Langley
The Township of Langley plans to create a new urban public park on the Jericho drinking water reservoir in the Smith neighbourhood of Willoughby. This project will turn critical infrastructure into a space for community recreation and social gatherings.
Details of Smith Reservoir Park
| Location | Address | Capacity | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jericho Reservoir | 20400 73A Ave. | 20.6 million litres | 1 acre |
The planned Smith Reservoir Park will convert the concrete roof deck and surrounding landscape of the water distribution facility into a permanent public space. This project is a partnership between the Township of Langley and Metro Vancouver Regional District. It aims to meet the public space needs of a growing residential neighbourhood.
The area was once rural, with large single-family properties and undeveloped land. It is expected to transition to a denser mix of housing, including compact single-family homes, townhouses, rowhouses, and low-rise condominiums.
Jericho Reservoir Completion
The regional district completed the Jericho reservoir in 2022 to support the drinking water demands of new developments. The structure was designed to allow for future transformation into a multi-use public amenity.
The reservoir’s main purpose is to store treated drinking water and maintain reliable water pressure. It has a capacity equivalent to over eight Olympic-size swimming pools.
Park Features and Accessibility
Preliminary plans for the rooftop park include food vendors in shipping containers, a mini golf course, cornhole courts, a themed playground, and a new game concept called lawn bowling billiards. A walking loop will connect amenities and seating areas for visitors.
A glass enclosure railing has been partly installed around the rooftop perimeter. During a public meeting in December 2025, Langley Township Council directed staff to explore options for improving accessibility for people with mobility challenges.
Future Plans for the Park
Once completed, Smith Reservoir Park is expected to provide a unique public space that reflects Langley Township’s approach to maximizing community benefits from infrastructure. The park project is anticipated to be included in the municipal government’s 2026-2030 capital plan. No firm timeline has been set for construction and completion.
Design and Educational Role
The 2022-completed Jericho reservoir was designed by Local Practice Architecture & Design, with contributions from Ratio Architecture, Ausenco, Associated Engineering, and Lanarc. North America Construction was the main contractor.
The design reflects how water flows and collects on the site. The current and future park design aims to educate visitors about the importance of water infrastructure.
To reduce the visual impact of the concrete structure, the design includes image-printed concrete, varied textures, and sloped walls. Water features, rain gardens, and access points help visitors understand how water moves through the area.
The regional district has several drinking water reservoirs in urban areas, including one at Vancouver’s Queen Elizabeth Park.
