PORT COQUITLAM, BC – May 28, 2021… Construction crews and equipment will arrive in downtown Port Coquitlam Monday to begin the transformation of McAllister Avenue.

Starting May 31, McAllister Avenue will be closed to vehicle traffic between Shaughnessy Street and Mary Hill Road as crews begin constructing a world-class streetscape featuring a level street surface, dedicated spaces to walk, cycle and rest, street-front patios and storefronts, and street trees and landscaping. Overall, it will have the feel of an open-air plaza.

Pedestrian traffic and access to properties along McAllister will be maintained throughout construction, which is anticipated for completion by early December.

“We’ve been waiting for this day with anticipation – it’s very exciting to see the shovels going into the ground to help turn our community’s vision for McAllister into a reality,” Mayor Brad West said. “This incredible world-class streetscape will be a showcase in our community that draws people to our downtown. It will also set the tone for the other improvements coming to our downtown in the next few years.”

Construction on McAllister over the coming months will bring:

• A wide pedestrian concourse on the north side and multi-use path on the south side,
• One-way east-bound traffic and angled parking to provide more space for those on foot and bicycle,
• Engaging street-level building design with patios and storefronts that spill out onto the sidewalk,
• A level street surface with unique paving materials for walking, driving and parking areas,
• Planters and furniture that can be removed during events,
• A modern approach to utilities, with wires buried underground and sustainable drainage that directs rainwater toward street trees, and

As part of the downtown revitalization plans, a 2,500-square-foot plaza alongside the future Donald Pathway extension is planned through the downtown along with The Met housing-commercial project by Quarry Rock Developments on McAllister Avenue.

The upgraded streetscape will be one of the first visible indicators of the City’s downtown revitalization efforts, which also include plans for major updates to the Civic Centre, including Leigh Square and Veterans Park. McAllister and Donald Pathway will be key features connecting the downtown’s amenities, services and businesses.

“We thank everyone for their patience as we begin this important construction project, kickstarting our downtown enhancement work,” said Cllr. Dean Washington, Council’s designate for downtown matters. “With construction, there is always some pain before there is gain, but we’ll be doing what we can to reduce the disruption and support our businesses through it.”

Ongoing communication will take place with area residents and businesses, including notices alerting them of the coming work and potential construction impacts, which may include noise, vibration and dust when crews are working close by.

Once construction begins Monday, detour signs will direct vehicles to nearby route options such as Wilson and Elgin Avenues, as well as alternative parking in lots or on streets within walking distance. Donald Avenue will remain open up to McAllister, but parking will be removed while construction takes place to allow for two-way traffic.

Safe access for pedestrians and cyclists to McAllister Avenue businesses and other properties will be maintained throughout construction. When access changes are required, properties will be notified in advance and signs installed to show alternate safe routes.

The City has been working with the Port Coquitlam Business Improvement Association to support downtown businesses, and is posting signs to remind downtown visitors that McAllister businesses remain open for business.

Visiting construction workers – including about 10 to 20 people each day – will also be encouraged to eat and shop downtown.

Information about the project construction and parking options are provided at portcoquitlam.ca/mcallister. Information about the City’s plans for the downtown can be found at portcoquitlam.ca/downtown.

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MEDIA CONTACTS

Pardeep Purewal
Manager of Communications & Admin Services
City of Port Coquitlam
Tel 604.927.5335 Cel 604.218.0533
Email purewalp@portcoquitlam.ca