Squamish could have a new public market in time for Christmas.
On Tuesday, Aug. 5, Vancouver-based development company Solterra unveiled drafts for the former PacWest building on Cleveland Avenue, across from Howe Sound Brew Pub. The downtown project requires a three-year temporary use permit to go ahead, a process that’s been initiated with the District of Squamish.
The building will be cleaned up and its basic frame left intact, company vice-president Mike Bosa said. If given the green light by council, the permit will include the possibility of a three year extension, for a total of six.
The land is zoned for commercial-
residential, but such a development won’t be happening any time soon, Bosa said.
Solterra has several other projects on the go including a 16-townhome development that is three units short of selling out, said director of sales Matthew McClenaghan. Once the last townhouse has been sold, the company will move across Eaglewind Boulevard to complete its downtown residential project, Nature’s Gate. This calls for 50-townhouses to be constructed north of the Rockcliff building.
The market will complement a lifestyle Solterra is promoting through its residential developments, Bosa said. The goal is to open the market five days a week. Semi-permanent and permanent rental stalls would be offered, as well as food carts and a childrens’ play area.
“We are here to get the creative juices flowing,” Bosa said noting he is open to ideas on use of the space.
The building could solve a possible future dilemma for the Squamish Arts Council, member Michelle Neilson said. The organization is preparing for the possibility of becoming homeless, as the district may take over the council-owned building – currently occupied by the SAC -– in O’Siyam Pavilion Park, she said.
“The timing of this project is awesome.”
Solterra is also moving forward with its business park proposal on the corner of Queens and Commercial ways. An amendment is required to allow more uses into the light industrial zoning. The development includes an indoor climbing gym and a possible indoor bike park.
“We want to add more retail that will allow business to service business,” Bosa said. “You want amenities where you work.”
