Port Coquitlam's century-old city hall needs a new roof.
And replacing it won't come cheap.
The city anticipates having to pay as much as $500,000 for the project, which requires a heritage alteration permit to proceed.
On Tuesday (Sept. 20), council approved the permit, which sets in motion the project that is likely to take place sometime toward the end of 2022 or the beginning of 2023 — depending on the weather and contractor schedule.
Roof project tendered in October
The work, which includes replacing the skylights, will be going out to tender in October, according to city spokesperson Ximena Ibacache.
This isn't the first time the 108-year-old building has been updated.
An addition was completed in 1988 that significantly increased the size of the building and re-oriented the front entrance to the civic plaza.
Now, the roof has reached the end of its "useful life," according to the city, and needs to be replaced.
Pattern reflects Edwardian style
As the city hall is a designated heritage building, alteration of the structure needs to be approved with a Heritage Alteration Permit.
Consultants have recommended using a dark-toned heavyweight fibreglass shingle, cut in a scalloped style that will mimic natural slate. The new roofing material is also supposed to have a 50-year warranty.
"The proposed design choice is intended to be in keeping with previous roof design and the classic heritage character of the building. In addition, minor changes to the flat portion of the roof (around the third-floor skylight) will be made to enhance durability and provide better access for maintenance activities," a staff report states.
The original 1914 roof of the building was asphalt shingle in a diamond or scalloped pattern and the existing fibre cement composite roofing tile was installed when the addition was completed
The colour, scalloped design and installation pattern appears to have been intended to emulate slate roof tile, in keeping with the Edwardian architectural style.
Still, it's not the only homage to history in Port Coquitlam.
Recently, a new affordable rental housing project was named Westminster Junction after the city's original railway station.
