Redevelopment of Leigh Square is 90% complete, Port Coquitlam announces

Following a few setbacks, construction on Port Coquitlam’s revision of Leigh Square is nearing completion and will be re-opened soon, the city announced on Monday.

In September, the city predicted the project would likely be finished before the end of 2024. Work is now approximately 90 percent complete following delays caused by October’s atmospheric river.  

“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.”

Leigh Square has been one the city’s key venues since 2007, but had been underutilized outside of official events, according to the city.

Redevelopment work began in late 2023 as part of the city’s downtown revitalization project, which includes upgrades to McAllister Street, Veterans Park and Donald Pathway.

The vision for Port Coquitlam’s downtown is a: “a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly, safe and welcoming commercial and residential zone, with strategic redevelopment that retains the area’s charm and heritage,” according to the city.

West said that construction fencing is being removed in sections to allow access through the area as quickly as possible. A grad opening ceremony is being planned for spring.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience as we complete the final touches to bring this revitalized space to life,” West said.

Some of the improvements include:

• 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

Work to install park seating, a water feature, plants and shrubs, the new playground and other amenities is ongoing.

“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 Coun. Dean Washington. “This transformation is a key part of the much-needed refresh of our downtown.”

Spiking construction costs since the pandemic caused the city to pursue cost saving through materials and construction phasing, according to the release, adding staff took every opportunity to find grants and other external sources from senior levels of government.