Construction begins on replacement for Port Coquitlam elementary school

Construction has begun on a replacement for Hazel Trembath Elementary School in Port Coquitlam, nearly three years after the original building was destroyed in a suspicious fire.

B.C.'s Ministry of Infrastructure said the province is investing $39 million in the new school, scheduled to open in December 2027. It will have 240 seats and a neighbourhood learning centre intended to support future child-care spaces.

The former school burned down on Oct. 14, 2023, displacing about 200 students. Port Coquitlam MLA Mike Farnworth said the loss was deeply felt by students, families and the community.

The delay before construction began had prompted criticism from Mayor Brad West, who said last year that the wait was creating stress and uncertainty. The province announced the replacement funding days later.

Officials also announced the opening of a two-storey addition to École Dr. Charles Best Secondary with 300 seats in 12 classrooms. Seismic replacement work at Montgomery Middle School and construction of Burke Mountain Secondary are also underway, with both projects expected to open next year.