Leigh Square set for late-fall opening

Despite how it looks right now, Leigh Square should be delivered within its budget before the end of the year, according to Port Coquitlam city staff.

The overhauled plaza is expected to open in late fall, stated the city’s director of engineering and public works Joshua Frederick.

“The project is tracking very well and is expected to be delivered very close to and within budget,” Frederick stated in a message to the Dispatch.

Shortly before construction got underway in August 2023, the city announced the project would take about one year to complete.

“Every project has a few quantity variations and small changes which increase/decrease scope in nominal, insignificant amounts,” Frederick added.

Most of the utility work is wrapped up, leaving crews to work on park seating and the stage south of city hall.

The changes to Leigh Square – including a new stage, water feature, and space for food truck parking – are part of an $11.85-million effort intended to revitalize downtown Port Coquitlam, the city stated, noting other work at Veterans Park and the Port Coquitlam Community Centre.

The changes also include extending Donald Pathway from Wilson to McAllister Avenue.

The cost to Port Coquitlam taxpayers is expected to be $360,000, largely by paying for the upgrades with provincial COVID-19 restart grants as well as other grants from TransLink and the federal government.

The square was last refurbished in 2007 and has played host to festivals and art exhibitions. However, the square has been under-utilized between events and needed upgrade to bring crowds to Port Coquitlam throughout the year.

Mayor Brad West has pinpointed Leigh Square as a key component in creating a more welcoming and functional space for festivals and daily use. The work is already attracting attention and investment, West stated in a press release.

The city is scheduled to provide further updates at the end of October.