Port Coquitlam pump stations to undergo upgrades amid flood risks 

The City of Port Coquitlam announced Tuesday a high streamflow advisory had been issued for the lower Fraser River. (City of PoCo)

The City of Port Coquitlam is stepping up to combat climate change, with a $9.6 million project that will see upgrades given to its two drainage pump stations.

The funds will be funnelled into infrastructure upgrades of the city’s Cedar Creek and Maple Creek stations in a bid to ramp up the region’s flood protection, the city said in a statement released Thursday.

The project comes just a few weeks after the region was battered by another atmospheric river, which swamped people’s homes and flooded the streets to such an extent salmon were spotted swimming in them.

“Investing in flood mitigation infrastructure is critical to protecting Port Coquitlam’s residents, businesses, and environment from the increasing risks of severe weather events," said Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West in the release Thursday.

"These projects will not only enhance our ability to manage increased rainfall and rising sea levels but also support our commitment to environmental sustainability by improving fish passage and habitat,” he said.

The existing Cedar Creek station, which currently transfers water from Cedar Creek to the Pitt River, and the Maple Creek station, which discharges into the local river, will undergo enhancements designed to increase their flow capacity, strengthen their flood protection and encourage the safe passage of native fish.

The retrofit fit projects will include seismic upgrades, the replacement of the station’s pumps to fish-friendly variations, the installation of permanent generators, and improvements to the stations’ mechanical and electrical systems.

The refurbishment plan will also include a series of vegetation planting projects that will enhance the surrounding aquatic habitat, the city said in the release.

“Upgrading the Cedar Creek and Maple Creek drainage pump stations is a critical step in protecting our residents and infrastructure from the escalating environmental impacts,” said West.

“These projects reflect council’s dedication to sustainable development and the long-term well-being of our community.”