A revised mixed-use housing development is proposed for Squamish’s downtown south area.
A public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 3 regarding the 37762 Third Ave. development that includes 17 residential apartment units and 455 square metres of artisan or light industrial space on the main floor.
Council passed first and second reading of rezoning for the proposal by Timeless Developments – a Mike Bosa development company – on Sept. 5.
The rezoning is from light industrial to a newly created “creative mixed-use District zone.”
This zone creates both height and density bonuses for high ceiling industrial bays, pedestrian plazas and dedicated market rental.
Twenty per cent of the residential floor space of the Third Avenue development will be dedicated to rentals, according to Kerry Hamilton, District of Squamish planner. Seventeen residential parking stalls, one additional visitor parking stall and four industrial surface stalls will be provided.
An earlier rezoning proposal for townhouse units on the site received first and second reading but was defeated at third reading on Dec. 6, primarily because of overwhelming public feedback council received that the original plan did not fit with the character of the quirky downtown south community.
“I didn’t like the transition the first time and just the residential focus. I really like the mixed-use density here and I like the non-restrictive zoning,” said Coun. Susan Chapelle.
“I think this is going to be a much better and more useful project for people looking for that live-work space and to have a more creative industrial type use in those bottom spaces.”
Former municipal councillor Bryan Raiser, who owns a marijuana dispensary in the downtown south area, supports the new plan. “I like the artisan zoning and the area needs a coffee shop and retail is an essential part of the mix,” Raiser said in a letter submitted to council on Sept. 5.
The public hearing on this development is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 3 at 6 p.m. in council chambers at municipal hall.
