Designs for new park bordering the Coquitlam River will start this month in Coquitlam's Hockaday subdivision.
Two years ago, city council voted to spend $25,000 for conceptual plans for Hockaday Park, a 1.27-acre parcel bought by the city in 2004 that still has its original residence at the end of McTavish Court. And last December, council budgeted $177,000 for the first phase of park construction.
Once built, the city's plan is to connect Hockaday Park with Gallette Park, about two blocks north, with a trail next to the Coquitlam River.
"Hockaday and Gallette parks - and the open space linking the two - provide one of the few opportunities along the Coquitlam River for the public to easily access and view the Coquitlam River," Lori MacKay, the city's general manager of leisure and parks, wrote in a report that came before the recreation committee March 28. "This amenity is valued by the local residents and will have community-wide appeal and benefit."
About 3,500 people live in houses in the Hockaday subdivision, located north of David Avenue and east of Pipeline Road. Some neighbours were surveyed last December about the park's potential uses and they suggested an informal open grassy area for picnics and public access to the river. A community advisory group will be struck this month to work with city staff and a representative from Coquitlam River Watch will also be invited to attend the workshops, MacKay said.
A draft design will go out for public feedback in May, with a final city report due before council in July for Phase 1 construction and cost approvals.
