It's been one year since Port Moody residents and visitors were granted the right to crack open a cold one in a local park.
In July 2022, the city joined Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam in launching a pilot program that allowed responsible consumption of alcoholic drinks in six designated spaces
Now, with six months left of the initiative, which was extended from April until the end of 2023, Port Moody staff are looking for feedback on if the project is working or what other adjustments could be made for everyone's benefit.
A survey has begun, both online and on paper, for local residents to voice questions, comments or concerns.
This includes input on the rules and locations, or sharing experiences of public drinking.
Port Moody's six safe spaces for public alcohol consumption, between 11 a.m. and dusk, are as follows (in alphabetical order):
- Kyle Centre Pop-Up Park (125 Kyle St.)
- Old Orchard Park (630 Alderside Rd.)
- Pioneer Memorial Park (275 Knowles St.)
- Queens Street Plaza (Queens Street between Clarke Street and Spring Street)
- Rocky Point Park (2800-block Murray Street)
- Trasolini Field spectator stands (300 Ioco Rd.)
Drinking isn't allowed within 10 metres of a playground or spray park, nor within the Labyrinth healing garden at Pioneer Memorial Park or on the beach at Old Orchard Park.
Staff have since installed signs at the parks, as well as on the City of Port Moody's website, with maps showing the areas where alcohol can be consumed.
Neighbourhood parks weren't included in the alcohol in parks pilot, said Anna Mathewson, Port Moody's general manager of community services, ahead of the project's launch.
This was due to a lack of time prior to last summer to consult with local residents.
After last call in December, a report will be presented to mayor and council, which will include recommended steps going forward — if it's to be fully integrated into Port Moody's bylaw system.
The report is set to include the public engagement survey, which interested residents can now complete before the deadline of Sept. 5.
The online version of the survey can be found on Engage Port Moody.
Residents that wish to pen their feedback can pick up a paper copy during regular business hours at Port Moody City Hall (100 Newport Dr.).
