Coquitlam added 9,341 residents between 2016 and 2021, an approximately 6.7 percent increase, according to Census data released earlier this year.
The city also added more than 4,000 new dwellings during that stretch.
But is Coquitlam adding the right type of density? Here’s what the mayoral candidates had to say.
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Is Coquitlam adding the right kind of density? Why or why not?
Adel Gamar
Not in the correct balance with other infrastructure. Increasing density around public transit is a good strategy. However, current development has not been matched by the needed physical infrastructure (roads, sidewalks, benches, cycling paths) and social infrastructure (libraries, childcare, retail and recreation facilities). In addition to high density around transit, we also need a mix of housing options including light density housing, co-ops, and purpose-built rental.
Richard Stewart (incumbent)
Yes. Adding needed housing near Skytrain stations reduces auto-dependence (as envisioned by Provincial Government, Metro 2050 Regional Plan, and sustainable planning principles), along with gentle density elsewhere. Metro Vancouver is bounded by mountains, ocean, agriculture, and U.S. Border; we need to remain a compact urban region to protect the environment/livability.
