The Coquitlam Express has a new home.
But it’s only for two games and the BC Junior Hockey League team is staying in the Tri-Cities.
On Feb. 14 and 19, the Express will host the Surrey Eagles at the recently completed Port Coquitlam Community Centre (PCCC).
The temporary relocation is part of a concerted effort by the team to expand its reach beyond Coquitlam, said general manager Tali Campbell.
“We talk a lot about being a Tri-Cities team, and with the new arena in Port Coquitlam almost ready, we figured it was perfect timing to move two games this season to that facility,” he said. “We are excited to be one of the first to be able to fill the building with fans.”
Construction crews are putting the final touches on the $132-million facility in downtown PoCo that will be officially opened with a big celebration on Oct. 2.
Built in two phases, the centre includes three ice arenas, a leisure pool, library, fitness centre, games room, multipurpose rooms, offices, the Wilson Lounge for seniors as well as a kitchen and underground parking for 425 vehicles.
The Express games will be played in the 790-seat Jon Baillie Arena.
“We are excited to welcome the Coquitlam Express and Surrey Eagles to come and play along with their families, friends and fans to our new vibrant community hug,” said PoCo Mayor Brad West in a release. “We are looking forward to providing our community members and teams a place to be able to enjoy sports, maintain active lifestyles and connect with each other year-round.”
The PCCC is also home for the PoCo Saints of the BC Junior A Lacrosse League that was able to host some games this past summer in a schedule truncated by COVID-19 public health restrictions.
