Coquitlam RCMP has a new community policing office (CPO) in Burquitlam, but it still needs more volunteers to help Mounties engage and connect with the public.
The new CPO (557 Emerson St.) is part of the "Heart of Burquitlam" initiatives between the city and Concert Properties, and is located half a block from the Bettie Allard YMCA (555 Emerson St.) — also included in the community development project.
On Wednesday (May 17), Mounties are inviting the public to celebrate the CPO station's official grand opening, meet with officers and staff, and understand its purpose for the community.
Longtime volunteer Natalie Thomas is still volunteering to help with crime-related issues since RCMP opened an space in Burquitlam 25 years ago.
She told the Tri-City News the new CPO looks "phenomenal," but many hands make light work.
"It's going to be a very busy area when it's all done. With so much foot traffic, we'd like to see more volunteers at our station."
The Burquitlam CPO opened April 3, but with limited hours until vacancies were filled.
As of May 8, its new extended hours are as follows:
- Monday to Friday
- 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday
- Closed
The street-level community station has a front counter — operated by volunteers and city staff — to support on-duty Mounties, as well as to liaise with the public on things like paperwork for criminal record checks, safety and crime-prevention programs, such as Citizens Crime Watch and Speed Watch, and lost and found items.
There are also two meeting rooms in the front with administration in the back.
And police have five dedicated parking spots along Emerson to make their stops while on patrol.
The Burquitlam CPO is one of four community policing stations in Coquitlam RCMP's jurisdiction, which also includes Ridgeway (Coquitlam), Mary Hill and Coast Meridian (Port Coquitlam).
The grand opening celebration is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on May 17.
Local residents interested in volunteering can call the detachment's main line at 604-945-1550 or visit its website.
You can also call the Burquitlam CPO directly at 604-949-5000 for more information.
- with files from Janis Cleugh, Tri-City News
