Port Coquitlam, BC – August 18, 2026... With students across School District 43 (SD43) heading back to class on Tuesday, September 8, the City of Port Coquitlam is launching its annual Back to School Blitz, a coordinated seasonal maintenance and safety initiative to get school zones in shape for the new school year. This year’s blitz is condensed into a five-day push from August 24 to August 28.
Through the blitz, Public Works crews will be clearing sightlines at intersections and school zones, cleaning traffic and pedestrian signage, pruning boulevard and park trees and shrubs, inspecting playgrounds ahead of increased fall use, and inspecting crosswalk markings near schools, with all work wrapping up well ahead of students returning on September 8.
“This blitz is all about making sure our school zones are sharp and clear for September 8,” said Mayor Brad West. “Over the five days, our crews will be out making sure sightlines are clearer, signage is clean, crosswalks are visible, and playgrounds are checked, so families can feel confident sending their kids back to school. Let’s all do our part and slow down for students in school zones.”
The Back to School Blitz builds on the City’s ongoing seasonal readiness program and reflects Council’s continued commitment to pedestrian, cyclist and student safety in school zones. As students, families and staff return to routines this fall, the City is reminding motorists, cyclists and pedestrians to:
- Slow down and obey posted school zone speed limits
- Watch for students walking and cycling to and from school
- Share the road and give crossing guards and students the right of way
The City continues to work with School District 43 and Coquitlam RCMP on school zone safety messaging as part of the campaign’s broader outreach this fall.
Residents can follow the City’s progress and view before-and-after photos of completed work on the City’s social media channels throughout the campaign.
