A parking variance request is at the centre of a proposed five-storey commercial building development, heading to council this week in the City of North Vancouver.
Council will consider a rezoning application at its July 6 meeting that would allow a five-storey commercial and medical office building at 835 and 845 West 15th Street, while also reducing the number of required vehicle parking spaces by 34. The application, submitted by Cascadia-Envirossentials Holdings LP on behalf of Cascadia Green Development, seeks to rezone the properties from Service Commercial (CS-1) to a new Comprehensive Development (CD-773) zone.
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According to a staff report, the proposed building would have a density of 2.5 floor space ratio (FSR) and cover 64 per cent of the site. The development is intended for commercial and medical office uses. The proposed parking reduction is below the minimum commercial parking requirements, but staff is recommending support for the variance due to the site’s location within the Marine Drive Frequent Transit Development Area and the applicant’s transportation demand management measures.
Those measures include providing Evo Car Share memberships and driving credits for building owners and tenants, valued at approximately $36,750, as well as welcome packages promoting transit, cycling and car-share options.
The site is located mid-block on West 15th Street between Fell Avenue and Marine Drive. Under the City’s Official Community Plan, the properties are designated Mixed Use Level 2, which permits a maximum density of 2.5 FSR and identifies the area as a priority location for higher-density development near frequent transit.
Because the proposal aligns with the Official Community Plan, council will be asked to approve the rezoning bylaw without holding a public hearing, as permitted under the Local Government Act.
If approved, the project would be subject to several conditions, including the installation of public art valued at $74,250 and a covenant restricting the building to 100 per cent commercial use.
The developer would also be responsible for off-site improvements, including new sidewalks, curb and gutter work, street lighting, street trees and lane reconstruction along West 15th Street. Additional road dedication and storm infrastructure upgrades may also be required.
The proposal received unanimous support from the Advisory Design Panel in January after revisions were made to improve accessibility, rain protection, bicycle parking and safety features. Public feedback was limited, with a virtual information session drawing two participants and one comment, while another submission was received by email. Comments generally supported the project and encouraged improvements to the adjacent lane.
More construction. More disturbance of daily life. More cars. More people. When does it stop? JFC. Take a break from all this madness!
May I remind you all that the majority of campaign contributions for the past two mayors came were made by real estate developers and the construction industry!
All this construction is NOT in the best interests of citizens and residents.