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Is getting around Port Coquitlam difficult? Answer this survey about challenges facing older people

Input sought from people 55 years and older, or those who work with them, to help come up with ways to make PoCo safer to walk, drive, and transit across the city.
Diane Strandberg
Diane Strandberg
Getty Images Older People Walking - Mobility
Port Coquitlam is surveying people 55 years and older to find out what mobility barriers they face.Getty Image

If you’re an older adult in Port Coquitlam, what would help you feel safer when travelling around the community?

The city is asking adults over the age of 55 to complete the Older Adult and Senior Community Mobility Safety Survey by March 15 to help gain insights into any fears or barriers they experience as they walk, wheel, cycle, drive or take transit around the community.

The feedback is set to pinpoint what would help seniors feel safer getting around and gaps in awareness about existing resources, while also informing conversations about improvements with government and transportation agencies.

In a release today (Feb. 24), PoCo Mayor Brad West said the survey ties in with council's priorities for "improving safety, enhancing transportation and planning a livable, welcoming community that supports quality of life for people at all stages of life."

“We want to make sure our older residents feel safe and confident moving around Port Coquitlam and accessing all the services and amenities available to them, whether that’s going to a doctor’s appointment, shopping for groceries, strolling the trails or meeting up with friends at Wilson Lounge,” he stated.

The survey is open to eligible residents who live, work or visit Port Coquitlam, or anyone who works with older adults in the city.

SENIORS' MOBILITY CONCERNS

In addition to the online survey, paper copies will also be available in Wilson Lounge at the Port Coquitlam Community Centre (PCCC).

After the results are analyzed in late March, the project will move into its second phase that includes a community engagement strategy, set to be released in late summer or fall.

Potential funding for improvements or resources through the project partners may become available.

Capital improvements may also be considered through the city’s capital budget process.

The survey is being conducted by Port Coquitlam Community Policing in partnership with ICBC, Metro Vancouver Transit Police, TransLink and Coquitlam RCMP, the survey is the first step in identifying resources that would help older adults feel safer as they move around Port Coquitlam.