Council enthusiastic on two-storey daycare project

Despite a shortage of sidewalks, Port Coquitlam council was generally supportive of a proposed 52-unit childcare on Lincoln Avenue just off Coast Meridian Road.

There are no sidewalks on Lincoln and, with no development in the offing, it will likely stay that way, suggested Mayor Brad West.

“The properties to the west – I can’t imagine there’s going to be any sort of redevelopment any time soon,” West said. “Are these kids going to walking down the middle of Lincoln to access a park?”

There is a long-term plan to add a multi-use path to Lincoln, noted a staffer.

“I don’t hang my hat on that too much,” West replied.

The applicant, Axin Architecture Ltd., would be asked to pay for several off-site improvements including a sidewalk in front of the daycare. However, it would be “an unreasonable suggestion” to ask the company to pay to extend those sidewalks, West acknowledged.

Noting that the cost of infrastructure upgrades and utility connection have been a challenge for other daycare operators, West said he wanted to make sure Axin was entering into the arrangement with their eyes open.

The project includes six parking spots – two for staff and four for parents. However, there will likely be four parking spots along Lincoln as well, according to staff.

Aside from concerns over neighbourhood traffic and problems parents might experience with the morning queue, council was generally supportive.

“I’m very thankful to see a daycare operator,” said Coun. Nancy McCurrach. “We definitely need more space and more hours.”

The centre would accommodate 28 preschool-aged children and 24 infants and toddler.

The 3,724 square foot childcare is set to feature four classrooms, according to a city staff report.

To move ahead, the property at 1551 Lincoln Ave. would have to be rezoned to industrial. The site is currently occupied by a house and garage.

Two coniferous trees and a large cedar hedge along the lane would have to be removed.

Council unanimously voted to advance the proposal to a council meeting.