Summer weather has arrived – finally – and it’s great to see our residents getting out to enjoy it at Coquitlam’s many parks, trails and natural spaces.
July 30, 2020
Summer weather has arrived – finally – and it’s great to see our residents getting out to enjoy it at Coquitlam’s many parks, trails and natural spaces.
With the August long weekend coming up, it’s wise to remember Dr. Bonnie Henry’s advice about not letting COVID-19 steal our summer. The way I see it, that can be interpreted more than one way.
In one sense, we’ve all seen how the irresponsible actions of a few have caused a surge in cases and a resulting roll-back of some privileges. If we keep heading in that direction, we’ll likely see further restrictions this summer and fall.
At the same time, we also don’t want to let anxiety about other people’s behaviour steal away our enjoyment of summer – something we all need after our stressful spring. Whether you’re picnicking at the park, cycling the trails or sipping a cold one on a patio, try not to let other people’s actions ruin your day. We can only control what we do, and it doesn’t help our mental health to get worried and angry whenever we think others are not doing their part.
Instead, let’s focus on the fact that most of us are trying to be part of the solution, and that there are plenty of ways we can safely enjoy the freedoms that came with Phase 3 of B.C.’s Restart Plan.
Some Tips for Enjoying Your Summer
One thing we can do is to shop locally and eat locally to support the businesses that have reopened their doors in recent weeks. Many are relying on our business to stay afloat. Check out wegotthistricities.com to find out who’s open right now.
You can also plan a staycation and check out local attractions, parks and restaurants you’ve never visited. Better yet, grab some takeout to enjoy at one of our 70-plus parks. For ideas about places to visit, eat and drink in Coquitlam, go to visitcoquitlam.ca or watch for the hashtag #SummerintheCQ for Tourism Coquitlam’s 75 Days of Summer campaign.
Did you know we’ve set aside specific times for casual play by families and friends at local sports fields? Grab your ball glove, Frisbee or soccer ball and hit the fields with the people in your bubble for some fun and exercise. Find out which fields are available, and when, at coquitlam.ca/sportsfields.
If you’re looking for something more structured, sign up for a registered recreation program in August. Coquitlam has entered Stage 3 of our reopening plan, which means registered access to indoor recreation facilities along with a variety of outdoor programs. Visit coquitlam.ca/registration for information.
How about getting to know your neighbours better? It’s been great to see people socializing along their street at a safe distance, and the City wants to encourage more of that through our Block Party program. Check out coquitlam.ca/blockparties to learn how to qualify for a $150 grant for your own physically-distant block party.
The heat is finally here but this summer is different – we have guidelines to follow and restrictions on where we can go and what we can do. But let’s enjoy what we can do in a safe manner, and make sure that we come out of this pandemic knowing our neighbours better, and knowing our community better.
Richard Stewart
Mayor
PS: We’re always interested in hearing about people demonstrating their Coquitlam spirit. Please share your stories on social media and tag #CoquitlamSPIRIT.
Supporting Our Community During the Pandemic
The City of Coquitlam is here to help, with these resources:
- Visit www.coquitlam.ca/csrp to learn about the City’s Community Support and Recovery Plan, which is providing immediate and long-term support for the non-profit sector, businesses and residents;
- Visit www.coquitlam.ca/spirit for a free library of activities for all ages, including fitness, arts and culture, outdoor activities and ways to connect with your community; and
- Visit www.coquitlam.ca/covid19 for updates on City services and initiatives and COVID-19 health resources.
Coquitlam residents and businesses are also encouraged to follow the City of Coquitlam on social media (Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) and download the CoquitlamConnect mobile app for up-to-date City information. Links are available at www.coquitlam.ca/connect.