by Nikola Tzenov, photography by Nikola Tzenov
The City of Westminster celebrated the grand opening of the Wakefield Valley Event Center on Friday at 4pm, marking the official completion of renovations and the transformation into a community-focused event space.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony introduced the renovated facility, located on the grounds of what is now Wakefield Valley Park. The center offers four distinct rental spaces, including a prep kitchen, restrooms on each floor, tables and chairs with black linens, and an outdoor deck overlooking the park. Spaces may be rented individually or in combination for larger gatherings.
Mayor Mona Becker said the project reflects a commitment to creating a vibrant gathering place for the community. “Our goal was simple: to create a space that strengthens our community connections, provides a welcoming venue for local events, and ensures it serves as a centerpiece for engagement and opportunity,” Becker said. “Whether you’re planning a wedding, a milestone celebration, a corporate retreat, or private event, this facility is designed to meet your needs.”
The $3 million renovation was funded entirely through state and federal support, without using local funds. Becker acknowledged Senator Ready and the District 5 delegation for securing $1 million in funding, as well as the Department of Natural Resources, Wickersham Construction, the architects, and city staff who contributed to the project.
Council President Tony Chiavacci emphasized the importance of preserving open space and the long-term vision behind the project. “We saw a once-in-a-generation chance to protect a critical resource and create something that will serve our residents for decades, even centuries,” Chiavacci said, noting that the golf course previously used roughly 80,000 gallons of water per day for irrigation.
Chiavacci credited former Council Member Dr. Robert Wack for laying the groundwork for the negotiations and the intent to treat the area’s water as a finite resource, and described the project as a defining moment in his 18 years of public service. “I consider this the most significant contribution I’ve had the privilege of being part of; not because my name is on it, but because of what it means to the future.” Chiavacci said.
The Wakefield Valley Event Center is now open for community events, offering modern amenities and preserving the scenic charm of Wakefield Valley Park.
