The Outpost is a hit.
On Tuesday, Sept. 26, Port Moody council will consider whether to extend the temporary use permit for another three years for the innovative community hub on St Johns Street that includes a licensed café and sales centre for local condo projects by Langley-based developer Marcon.
The café's menu includes sandwiches and artisan pizzas, as well as coffee by Vancouver's Timbertrain Coffee Roasters and beer from Port Moody's craft breweries.
Curated products from local merchants like Olive the Best are also on display along the warm wood walls.
Since it first opened in the summer of 2022, the Outpost has become a popular hangout for mobile workers looking for a place to plug in their laptops and catch up on email or hold a quick meeting.
The Vancouver Run Company leads runs from its dedicated corner and the outdoor patio out back has hosted live music and trivia events. Charity and community groups are also able to book the space for functions.
As part of its application for the permit extension, though, Marcon says it wants to reconfigure and slightly reduce that patio space to accommodate a second 1,384 sq. ft. structure to expand its sales area.
In a report, Port Moody development planner Armita Afsahi said while there have been a few noise complaints about the café, Marcon has modified its hours so it opens at 8 a.m. and closes at 8 p.m. to respect the neighbouring community.
Nic Paolella, Marcon's vice-president of development, said the enhanced sales centre is an effort to help cultivate community in the cities where it's building projects.
"We want to go beyond just developing buildings to developing vibrant and exciting foundations and futures for local businesses, residents and visitors alike."
Marcon is currently marketing its hue project, a 222-unit condo development under construction at the site of the former Barnet Hotel.
