A major Coquitlam arts centre is looking to the future as it celebrates its 40th year.
This week, officials with Place des Arts spoke to the city's council-in-committee about a needs assessment report that has been endorsed by its board of directors.
Consultants are recommending three options to increase programming space at the Maillardville facility, which last year drew 80,000 visits from students, teachers and other participants. They are:
renovate and expand to a maximum allowable coverage under the current city zoning;
renovate and expand but on a smaller scale than Option 1;
or relocate to Coquitlam Town Centre.
Yesterday, executive director Joan Roberts told The Tri-City News the board chose the first option as it didn't want to move away from its Brunette Avenue site.
"We are part of the community," she said, "and we have a very strong connection. That's what makes us different from private organizations."
Roberts said Place des Arts is in the process of creating short- and long-term visions for the cramped campus, which will require working closely with stakeholders and the city.
One of its goals is to undertake a capital campaign readiness study to raise around $12 million for the large-scale expansion.
As well, Roberts said parking and signage problems need to be addressed.
Opened on Dec. 1, 1972, Place des Arts had humble beginnings in an old police station and courthouse near the former city hall.
Since then, it has grown from 26 arts teachers to 80 today, with a $2-million operating budget - about one-third coming from city coffers.
