Construction begins on new Hazel Trembath Elementary School after devastating fire

Construction has commenced on a new Hazel Trembath Elementary School in Port Coquitlam, following a devastating fire that engulfed the original building on October 14, 2023. The provincial government announced on Monday that the replacement school will employ a first-in-B.C. hybrid-construction method, which is expected to expedite the opening.

The new facility will accommodate 240 students and feature a learning center designed for future childcare spaces. It will consist of two kindergarten classrooms and eight elementary classrooms.

RCMP investigations revealed that the fire was both human-caused and criminal in nature, although no individual has been charged. MLA Mike Farnworth expressed his sentiments, stating that the fire was a "criminal act of vandalism" that left the community devastated. He emphasized that Hazel Trembath Elementary School is more than just a school; it is a cornerstone of the community where children learn, make friends, and form relationships that often last a lifetime.

The project's estimated cost is nearly $39 million. Since 2017, the provincial government has invested in 11 capital projects within the Coquitlam School District. Eight of these projects have been completed, including the addition at École Dr. Charles Best Secondary School. The remaining three projects in progress involve the replacement of Hazel Trembath Elementary, the seismic replacement of Montgomery Middle School, and the construction of the new Burke Mountain Secondary school, which is set to open in 2027.

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