琉璃神社 council highlighted Manhattan Point, density, a future school, and amenities in its review of the draft North End Plan (NEP).
It lays out the vision for the area over the next 30 years and beyond.
鈥淭his plan comes at a time when the city is experiencing transformational growth and rapid change,鈥� Robert Miles, long-range planner manager, told council at its Oct. 21 meeting.
The plan envisions parks, transportation and infrastructure improvements, various types of housing, and retail and commercial opportunities that will add 5,000 new dwelling units and 10,000 thousand new residents.
鈥淢anhattan Point would remain primarily low-density residential,鈥� Miles said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 important to note this is a shift in the concept that was presented to council late last year.鈥�
Staff will continue to review plans for the area based on feedback it receives, he added.
鈥淐hanging that focus and allowing individuals to know that when properties become available we would be interested I think that was a positive step,鈥� Mayor Tom Days said.
The mayor also asked about a possible school site. Miles noted staff explored potential sites with the Central Okanagan School District (SD23).
鈥淏ut as the plan neared completion the school district indicated that they would not be able to commit to a specific site at this time.鈥�
Miles added that SD23 is working on a broader process to explore possible sites in and around the downtown, North End and surrounding neighbourhoods.
Councillor Luke Stack said he would be happier if there was some direction in identifying a school site and other amenities.
鈥淎lso, direction to encourage the retention of retail supermarkets serving this area. I think those are important components of a healthy neighbourhood.鈥�
Coun. Maxine DeHart said council should start lobbying for a school immediately.
鈥淚 think we have to have a school there, I don鈥檛 know how we鈥檙e going to facilitate anybody without a school.鈥�
Coun. Gord Lovegrove questioned staff about the projected number of residents expected to be living in the area.
鈥淭his is definitely downtown density,鈥� he said. 鈥淭his is going to support transit in every form. I鈥檓 excited by that.鈥�
Costs associated with the NEP are estimated at $385 million. The funding strategy consists of Development Cost Charges (DCCs), developer-led funding, and city contributions (general taxation, service fees etc.).
Miles told council that modelling shows development in the North End would perform well from a cost recovery perspective.
鈥淭his plan presents a cost-effective investment to transform the North End into an exciting new community鈥ver the next 30 years.鈥�
The NEP also provides guidance for the redevelopment of the Mill Site, which includes the old Tolko lumber mill and BC Tree Fruits site. The Mill Site Area Redevelopment Plan (ARP) is being led by the landowners.
After further staff review, the final version of the NEP will be brought back to council at a later date for adoption.
