PORT COQUITLAM, BC – Feb. 24, 2022… If you’re an older adult in Port Coquitlam, what would help you feel safer when traveling around the community?

The City is asking adults aged 55-plus to complete the Older Adult & Senior Community Mobility Safety Survey at portcoquitlam.ca/seniormobility by Mar. 15 to help gain insights into any fears or barriers they experience as they walk, wheel, cycle, drive or take transit around the community. Conducted by Port Coquitlam Community Policing in partnership with ICBC, Metro Vancouver Transit Police, Translink and Coquitlam RCMP, the survey is the first step in identifying resources that would help older adults feel safer as they move around Port Coquitlam.

“This project directly ties in with Council’s priorities for improving safety, enhancing transportation and planning a livable, welcoming community that supports quality of life for people at all stages of life,” Mayor Brad West said. “We want to make sure our older residents feel safe and confident moving around Port Coquitlam and accessing all the services and amenities available to them, whether that’s going to a doctor’s appointment, shopping for groceries, strolling the trails or meeting up with friends at Wilson Lounge.”

The survey is open to people aged 55 and up who live, work or visit Port Coquitlam, or anyone who works with older adults in Port Coquitlam. In addition to the online survey, paper copies will also be available in Wilson Lounge at the Port Coquitlam Community Centre.

Those who complete the survey in full by Mar. 15 will be entered in a draw to win one of five gift baskets from the City and community safety partners. One entry will be accepted per person.

The feedback gathered will help pinpoint what would help seniors feel safer getting around and gaps in awareness about existing resources that could help, while also informing conversations about improvements with government and transportation agencies.

“As we plan our community and services, it’s important to remember that people’s perceptions and needs related to their safety will change over time,” said Cllr. Steve Darling, Council’s designate for public safety and recreation matters. “Working with our partners in this initiative, will help us to provide people with the knowledge and resources they need to stay mobile and enjoy our community as well.”

After the survey results are analyzed in late March, the project will move into its second phase, including a community engagement strategy to be released in late summer or fall.

Potential funding for improvements or resources through the project partners may become available. Capital improvements may also be considered through the City’s capital budget process.

Visit portcoquitlam.ca/seniormobility for more information, to take the survey, or to register with Let’s Talk PoCo to be advised of future opportunities to comment on this and other City initiatives.

– 30 –

MEDIA CONTACTS

Ximena Ibacache
Manager of Communications & Administrative Services
City of Port Coquitlam
Tel 604.927.5499
Email ibacachex@portcoquitlam.ca