Coquitlam neighbourhoods were partying like it was 2016 to celebrate the city's 125th anniversary with block parties all summer long — and lots of them.
Last week, the city met its target of 125 block parties, successfully capping off the fun challenge that was part of Coquitlam's birthday festivities.
"The mission was to get the community involved and engaged, and to create meaningful connections and lasting legacies, and I think the block parties are a perfect example of that," said Joan McCauley, a member of the city task force organizing the 125th celebrations.
Earlier this year, Coquitlam challenged its residents to host 125 block parties to celebrate its 125th anniversary, and in the meantime reconnect with old friends and neighbours, welcome new ones and enhance the safety of neighbourhoods through greater awareness. Coquitlam kicked in a $150 grant for each party and provided free roadway barricades as well as liability coverage.
McCauley said many of the 125 block parties were hosted for the first time, an indicator that residents "were on board with this initiative," she said.
"This is the goal, to really get people to know their neighbours, make those friendships and to help celebrate not only Coquitlam's anniversary but to celebrate their neighbourhoods and making new connections," McCauley added.
The approved block parties started on Jan. 3, with the busiest block party days on Sept. 10, when there were 10 bashes, and Aug. 13, when there were eight.
Those who hosted block parties also had the option of adding on a Neighbourhood Tree Day program, which included a visit from a tree expert to do a tree care workshop customized for the neighbourhood, with info on planting on boulevards or private yards and pruning or care demonstrations.
City spokesperson Kathleen Vincent said there were 33 Neighbourhood Tree Days, which will add 125 trees to the landscape.
Coquitlam's 125th celebrations continue with the Community Heritage Picnic on Saturday, Sept. 17 at Blue Mountain Park from noon to 4:30 p.m. Also on Saturday is the second annual Coquitlam Firefighters Charitable Field Lacrosse Tournament, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Eagle Mountain Park. Visit www.coquitlam125.ca for full details.
[email protected]
@spayneTC
