At present, Translink has plans to provide rapid transit service to the Tri-City area. Several forms of technology are being considered, included light rail and SkyTrain. As well, two routes are being considered: one "Southeast Corridor" which makes use of the Lougheed Highway corridor through south Coquitlam and turning west near Coquitlam Town Centre to terminate on the east side of Port Moody; the second option – "Northwest Corridor" -- will link Lougheed Mall to Coquitlam Town Centre by way of Moody Centre, north of Clarke Street. Council is on record objecting to this second option, particularly Skytrain through Moody Centre.
If people vote yes to this question on April 17, the City will advise Translink that Skytrain technology using the Northwest Corridor route through Moody Centre is an acceptable option for the development of a rapid transit system to the area. If this is rejected, the City will request that Translink reject a Skytrain route through Moody Centre, but will continue to advocate that rapid transit service by provided to the eastern part of Port Moody using the Southeast Corridor. Translink, an independent transit authority, is not obliged to comply with either option.
Mayor Trasolini was very pleased to see the referendum question brought forward. "Translink has assured us that they would take Port Moody's input into consideration. We obviously can't dictate what Translink will do, but a "no" vote to Skytrain through Port Moody will send a pretty clear message."
The by-election will be held April 17 to fill a vacant seat on Council following the death of Councillor Bob Brown in December. Details on voting times & locations, as well as more information on these issues, is available at www.cityofportmoody.com/election