The redevelopment of Rochester Park in Coquitlam will take a little longer than some city councillors had hoped.
While the parking lot is expected to be built by September, the rest of the park, which will include a climbing structure and zipline, will not be completed until June 2017.
“I think this is just wrong,” said Coun. Mae Reid. “We have gone without any facilities there.”
Staff said that the $4.3-million project has been complicated by challenging geotechnical conditions for the new trail system. A report to council noted that the 10-acre facility will fill a gap in service in the Maillardville neighbourhood.
Rochester Park is not the only park facility facing delays, according to the staff document.
The 3.7-acre Leigh Park, which is expected to include a bike skills park, an off-leash dog area and recreational picnic area, was expected to be open this spring but staff said drainage issues will likely push the opening to June.
Meanwhile, the Town Centre Park amphitheatre is underway, with construction crews breaking ground on the facility last month. That plaza is expected to be completed in time for Coquitlam’s 125th birthday celebrations.
Parks, recreation and culture manager Raul Allueva told council the city is still waiting to hear from the federal government about a $500,000 grant application for the $2.7-million outdoor performance and event plaza .
“We don’t have any formal word yet,” Allueva said. “We are very hopeful. We have had very good feedback.”
@gmckennaTC
