Essondale BC: A Quiet Residential Area in Coquitlam

Essondale, known historically as Essondale Hospital, is a tranquil residential area in Coquitlam, British Columbia. Established in 1913, it housed the provincial mental hospital for the mentally ill, often referred to as a hospital for the insane. The history of Riverview is deeply intertwined with the development of mental health facilities, including the crease clinic and the north lawn grounds.

The area encompassed various zones such as East Lawn and West Lawn, where patient labour was a common practice. The University of British Columbia and BC Mental Health have often collaborated on initiatives regarding mental health planning, contributing to the ongoing review of Riverview Hospital and its facilities.

As discussions around a draft plan to replace Riverview hospital unfold, community narratives, such as those in Tri-City News and Riverview Reminisces, reflect on the profound impact of the mental health act on the lives of residents and the broader film industry of the region.

Today, Essondale remains a serene enclave, bridging the historical significance of the provincial hospital with modern aspirations for mental health and addiction services, illustrating the evolution of care from its origins to contemporary practices.

Location

Location of Essondale BC

Essondale is located in southwest Coquitlam, bordering Riverview, Maillardville, and Cape Horn. Lougheed Highway and Mariner Way connect Essondale to nearby neighborhoods and cities. Homebuyers exploring the area often consult local mortgage experts in Ranch Park for guidance on financing options in this part of Coquitlam.

The area lies about 30 kilometers east of downtown Vancouver, with a commute of around 35 minutes by car. Public buses also serve the area, linking it to the SkyTrain system and West Coast Express.

This central location makes Essondale accessible and well-connected, while still offering a calm and less crowded environment compared to busier urban centers.

History of Essondale BC

Essondale has historical roots tied to the former Riverview Hospital. The neighborhood developed as part of the larger psychiatric hospital grounds built in the early 1900s. It was named after Dr. Henry Esson Young, a public health official in British Columbia.

Although Riverview Hospital closed in 2012, the area still contains heritage buildings and green landscapes. The provincial government now manages the site, and plans are underway to redevelop it into a mix of health, residential, and park uses.

Essondale remains a point of interest for its connection to local history and future potential.

Homes in Essondale BC

Essondale contains mostly single-family homes. Many houses sit on quiet streets with trees, sidewalks, and private yards. Some homes are older with original features, while others have modern upgrades. Buyers interested in the area often begin with a mortgage pre-approval Coquitlam process to better understand their budget before exploring available properties.

The neighborhood includes ranchers, split-level houses, and two-story homes. Most properties have garages, driveways, and fenced yards. Some homes offer views of the surrounding hills or forests.

There are limited multi-unit properties in Essondale. However, nearby areas offer townhouses, apartments, and duplexes, giving buyers and renters different housing options close to Essondale.

Property values in the area reflect its peaceful setting and limited inventory.

Schools Near Essondale BC

Essondale is part of School District 43 (Coquitlam). Several public schools serve families in the area. These include elementary, middle, and secondary schools.

Hillcrest Middle School is located nearby. It offers grades 6 to 8 and includes programs in arts, sports, and leadership. Centennial Secondary School is a short drive away and serves grades 9 to 12.

Nearby elementary schools include Rochester Elementary and Mundy Road Elementary, which offer kindergarten to grade 5 education.

French Immersion is available at select schools in the district. Parents can choose programs that match their child’s learning needs.

All schools in the area provide safe environments and access to extracurricular programs.

Parks and Recreation in Essondale BC

Essondale is close to several parks, trails, and recreational facilities. These spaces support walking, cycling, sports, and outdoor play.

Riverview Forest surrounds much of the area. It contains trails, large trees, and quiet paths. People often walk dogs, jog, or enjoy nature in this peaceful setting.

Mundy Park, one of Coquitlam’s largest parks, is a short drive from Essondale. It features lakes, sports fields, playgrounds, and trails. Como Lake Park is also nearby and offers walking paths, benches, and lake views.

The Poirier Sport and Leisure Complex provides a pool, arena, gym, and community programs. Residents can join fitness classes or recreational leagues throughout the year.

Green space in and around Essondale supports healthy, active living.

Transportation and Commuting

Essondale connects well to key roads and public transit. Drivers can reach Lougheed Highway, Highway 1, and Barnet Highway in minutes. These routes lead to Burnaby, Surrey, and Vancouver.

Bus routes serve the area and connect to Braid Station, Coquitlam Central Station, and Lougheed Town Centre Station. From there, travelers can use SkyTrain or the West Coast Express to reach downtown Vancouver.

Travel time to central Vancouver by car is around 35 to 45 minutes. Public transit takes about one hour, depending on the route and time of day.

Many residents drive, bike, or use public transit based on their daily needs.

Shopping and Local Services

Essondale is close to several shopping centers, grocery stores, and service locations. Residents can find food, health care, and household goods within a short drive.

Austin Station, Como Lake Village, and Marmont Street Plaza offer grocery stores, cafes, banks, pharmacies, and restaurants. Larger shopping options are available at Coquitlam Centre, about 10 minutes away.

The area also includes dental offices, family clinics, pet services, and postal outlets. Most basic errands can be completed without leaving the neighborhood.

Residents benefit from a mix of local shops and larger retail centers nearby.

Health Care Access

Essondale lies close to several medical and care facilities. The Eagle Ridge Hospital is about 15 minutes away by car. It provides emergency services, surgeries, and outpatient care.

Walk-in clinics, dental practices, optometrists, and pharmacies are located in nearby plazas. Mental health services are available in surrounding communities, and some are linked to the future redevelopment of Riverview.

Access to care is reliable, with multiple options for families, seniors, and individuals.

Safety and Community

Essondale is a quiet and low-traffic area. Residents describe the neighborhood as peaceful and family-friendly. Many homes have fences, security lights, and visible house numbers.

Police services from Coquitlam RCMP cover the area. Patrols and neighborhood watch programs help support safety.

Sidewalks, streetlights, and park visibility make walking safe. Families often walk to nearby parks, trails, or bus stops.

Community members often take part in city programs, clean-up events, and neighborhood improvement projects.

Future Growth and Development

The future of Essondale depends largely on the plans for the Riverview Lands. The province of British Columbia is redeveloping this area into a mix of housing, mental health care services, and parkland.

The project will increase housing options, improve access to services, and preserve heritage buildings. Traffic patterns and infrastructure will also change as the area develops.

The city of Coquitlam has also invested in road upgrades, school improvements, and green space maintenance near Essondale.

Residents will likely see gradual changes, with efforts to preserve the calm and green character of the neighborhood.

Who Lives in Essondale?

Essondale attracts families, professionals, retirees, and long-term residents. Many homeowners have lived in the area for decades. Others moved recently to enjoy the natural setting and quiet environment.

The area suits people who value privacy, space, and access to green areas. It also appeals to those who work in nearby cities and want a short commute.

Essondale includes people from different backgrounds and age groups. Community events and local services support a connected and friendly atmosphere.

Summary of Essondale BC

Essondale is a small, quiet neighborhood in Coquitlam, BC. It features single-family homes, tree-lined streets, and access to parks and schools. It connects easily to nearby roads and transit systems.

The area offers privacy, green space, and historical interest. It suits families, seniors, and professionals who want calm surroundings with nearby services.

With future development of the Riverview Lands, Essondale may grow. Still, the area will likely keep its peaceful and green environment. Residents value its space, safety, and easy access to daily needs.

Essondale remains a steady choice for homebuyers and renters in Metro Vancouver.