PORT COQUITLAM, BC – January 9, 2025… The transformation of Leigh Square is nearing completion as Port Coquitlam prepares to reopen this key downtown civic and celebration space this spring.
Construction began in fall 2023 on the redevelopment of Leigh Square, part of the City’s ongoing downtown revitalization project and Civic Centre renewal that has included upgrades to McAllister Street, Veterans Park and Donald Pathway.
The Leigh Square improvements are now approximately 90 per cent complete. While weather delays, including the recent atmospheric river, and supply chain issues temporarily slowed progress, the City is now back on track. Construction fencing is being progressively removed in sections to restore access through the space as quickly as possible. The official grand opening celebration is planned for this spring, with more details to come.
“I am excited to see the transformation of Leigh Square nearing completion and to be able to reopen this important civic and celebration space to our community,” Mayor Brad West said. “The improvements will provide an enhanced space for events, gatherings, and everyday enjoyment in the heart of downtown Port Coquitlam. As construction fencing is removed in stages, we’re committed to ensuring safe and accessible pathways for residents. We appreciate everyone’s patience as we complete the final touches to bring this revitalized space to life.”
Leigh Square has been one of Port Coquitlam’s prime celebration venues since its last update in 2007. However, this large downtown space has been underutilized between events.
The improvements will bring life and energy to Leigh Square at all times, with an open and welcoming design including:
- An extension of Donald Pathway from Wilson to McAllister Avenues,
- Fully accessible pathways and surfacing,
- Clear sightlines and new lighting for improved safety at all hours,
- New seating to encourage people to rest and relax,
- New playground feature
- New landscaping and a water feature,
- Rehabilitating the streetscape on Leigh Square Place and
- A new stage that will back onto City Hall, for improved views and efficient site use.
Crews continue to work on park seating, water feature, planting, shrubs, a new playground, and other amenities. The stage includes an underground mechanical room component which will serve as the operational hub of the square, out of sight.
“Leigh Square has always been a valued gathering space, but these updates will make it more welcoming and functional for our community and businesses alike,” said Cllr. Dean Washington, Council’s designate for downtown matters. “This transformation is a key part of the much-needed refresh of our downtown.”
Keeping Taxpayers in Mind
Port Coquitlam has kept taxpayers in mind throughout the project. Since construction costs spiked during and since the pandemic, the City has worked closely with the project team to achieve savings and efficiencies through material choices and project phasing.
The City has also maximized grants and external revenue sources, including Accumulated Surplus funds (largely resulting from provincial COVID-19 restart grants), the Province’s Growing Communities Fund grant and funding from Government of Canada, TransLink and other external sources.
The vision for Port Coquitlam’s downtown is for a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly, safe and welcoming commercial and residential zone, with strategic redevelopment that retains the area’s charm and heritage while supporting thriving businesses and attracting people to the downtown to live, shop, socialize and celebrate.
Information about the downtown revitalization can be found at portcoquitlam.ca/downtown.
