The BC Government’s proposal to build over 7000 market housing units at Riverview threatens its very existence. Even if these units were all contained in high rise buildings, it would require at least 35 towers with all the associated parking, and infrastructure. The property would be sold to private developers and the heritage tree collection, landscapes, and buildings would be destroyed. An important ecological, horticultural, and historical treasure will be lost forever. We can’t allow this to happen.
The City of Coquitlam envisions a very different future for Riverview. In the 2005 Task Force Report, the Guiding Principles for future land use state:

that the needs of the mentally ill are paramount;

that the lands must remain in public ownership and accessible to all;

that the trees, the heritage buildings, and the green spaces must be protected;

and that absolutely no market housing be built.

The report does not preclude development or revenue generation at Riverview but states that any additional land uses must adhere to the guiding principles and be in harmony with the needs of the mentally ill.
A strong message must be sent to Housing Minister Rich Coleman and Premier Campbell to withdraw their misguided proposal immediately and work with the City of Coquitlam and the citizens of BC on a creative plan for an appropriate future for Riverview.

We are asking YOU to take action. Here is what you can do:

NOTICE:
The Riverview Tree Collection is located on the grounds of Riverview Hospital, a treatment facility for people with mental health challenges that is in active operation. Please respect the privacy of the Patients, this is their home. PHOTOGRAPHY POLICY