Briefing on Coquitlam—Port Coquitlam

Coquitlam—Port Coquitlam is a federal electoral district located in the province of British Columbia, Canada. The district is situated in the heart of the Lower Mainland, bordered by the Fraser River to the north and the Coquitlam River to the east. It is a diverse community with a mix of modern urban centres and natural landscapes, which attract visitors and businesses alike.

Population Centres

Coquitlam—Port Coquitlam comprises a number of population centres including Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, and the northern part of Port Moody. Port Coquitlam is the largest of these, and is known for its vibrant community centres and parks, historic landmarks and rich arts and cultural scene. Coquitlam, on the other hand, is the economic powerhouse of the district and the largest city in the Tri-Cities area. It is home to a range of shopping centres, recreational facilities and business parks, making it a hub for commerce and industry.

Issues and Events

Between 2019 and 2022, Coquitlam - Port Coquitlam saw a number of key news events and issues that were specifically local in scope. These included the ongoing opioid crisis, which has impacted the community with overdose incidents and fatalities. The district has also experienced major weather events, such as flooding and intense heat waves, which have caused disruptions to daily life.

Economy

Coquitlam—Port Coquitlam is home to a diverse range of industries, providing significant employment opportunities to the community. Key industries include hi tech, aerospace, and healthcare. Major employers in the district include L3 Harris, LifeLabs and Schneider Electric. In recent years, the pandemic had a negative impact on the local economy, with many businesses closing or experiencing reduced capacity.

Important Landmarks

Coquitlam—Port Coquitlam is home to a variety of important landmarks, both natural and man-made that showcase the district’s unique culture and history. These include the Coquitlam River, Rocky Point Park, the Terry Fox Library and the Rolland Art Centre. Visitors can also explore the scenic trails of Minnekhada Regional Park and Pinecone Burke Provincial Park.

Arts and Culture

Coquitlam—Port Coquitlam boasts a rich arts and culture scene, with many organizations supporting the arts and cultural development in the community. Key institutions include The Evergreen Cultural Centre, which offers a range of performances and exhibitions throughout the year, PoCo Heritage Museum and Archives, and Place des Arts, a cultural centre offering programs and events for all ages.

Electoral Issues

During the 2021 federal election, the economy and social issues were at the forefront of concerns for voters in Coquitlam—Port Coquitlam. Candidates debated on issues such as affordable housing, mental health and youth employment. Climate change and its impact on the local community were also critical issues that were raised during the election.

Community Organizations

Coquitlam—Port Coquitlam is home to several community organizations that make significant contributions to the economic and social well-being of the district. These include the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce, the Port Coquitlam Heritage and Cultural Society, the Crossroads Hospice Society, SHARE Family and Community Services, and Tri-City Transitions Society.

Multicultural Groups

Coquitlam—Port Coquitlam is a culturally diverse district, with significant cultural demographics including South Asian, Chinese, and Filipino communities. The Tri-Cities Chinese Business Association, The Iranian Business Association of Tri-Cities, and the Tri-Cities Filipino-Canadian Assoc are examples of organizations that serve these communities.

In conclusion, Coquitlam—Port Coquitlam is a unique and diverse community within the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, Canada. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich arts and culture scene, and thriving economy, the district is an important hub for industry, tourism and community development.