Coquitlam moves forward with a major new recreation and cultural hub for the growing Northeast sector
Coquitlam’s fast-growing Burke Mountain neighbourhood is set to welcome a transformative new community facility. The City is advancing plans for the Northeast Community Centre (NECC) — a multi-purpose, state-of-the-art recreation and cultural hub slated to open in 2028. Envisioned as an inclusive, nature-inspired facility, the centre is a key feature of the upcoming Burke Mountain Village, supporting the area’s expected population boom and anchoring a vibrant, complete community in Northeast Coquitlam.
A Mountain-Side Community Hub for a Growing Population
The vision for the Northeast Community Centre was born out of Coquitlam’s Parks, Recreation and Culture Master Plan, which identified an urgent need for new recreation infrastructure in the city’s expanding northeast sector. With Burke Mountain’s population expected to more than double — from just over 20,000 today to 50,000 residents within the next 25 years — the NECC aims to meet future demand head-on.
The 80,000-square-foot facility will rise adjacent to Burke Village Park, acting as a central gathering place for families, youth, and seniors alike. Framed by its natural mountainside surroundings, the three-storey building is being designed to reflect the beauty of the landscape while providing year-round access to modern amenities.
What Will the New Centre Include?
The NECC will feature a comprehensive mix of recreation, wellness, learning, and community spaces:
Aquatics Centre: A six-lane lap pool, separate leisure pool, whirlpool, sauna, and steam room.
Fitness & Sports Facilities: Two full gymnasiums and a fitness centre with weight and studio space.
Community Amenities: Multi-purpose rooms, a community kitchen, an innovative “makerspace,” and a large open atrium designed to invite light and movement throughout the space.
Library Branch: A new Coquitlam Public Library location, with its size tailored through a dedicated Library Services and Spaces Study.
Outdoor and Cultural Features: A covered outdoor recreation and event area, public art installations, and 340 parking stalls, half of which will be covered.
These offerings are being thoughtfully designed to serve both Burke Mountain residents and the wider Coquitlam community.
From Vision to Reality: The Project Timeline
The NECC has been in the works for several years and has passed through multiple planning and public engagement phases. Here’s where things stand:
2019–2021: The City conducted two public engagement phases, hearing from over 1,000 participants, including local groups and culturally diverse residents.
2023: The project moved into the design development phase, with Council approval on final concept and budget.
2024: Ongoing design refinement continues, with additional community engagement scheduled.
2025: Final schematic design and permitting are expected, along with site preparation and servicing work.
2026–2027: Full construction phase.
2028: Grand opening of the Northeast Community Centre.
Grounded in Community and Culture
The design and planning process has been shaped by broad community input, strategic urban planning principles, and a strong commitment to inclusivity. Acknowledging the project’s location on the traditional and ancestral lands of the kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem) First Nation, the City continues to consult with Indigenous partners to ensure respectful and meaningful development.
With its blend of recreational, educational, and cultural elements, the NECC is positioned to be much more than just a community centre — it’s a cornerstone for a thriving, connected, and inclusive future in Northeast Coquitlam.
Curious how this could shape the future of Burke Mountain? We’re keeping a close eye on major civic projects like the NECC so our clients always stay informed. Want to be one of them?