Mission council voted unanimously on Aug. 16 to send an application for a 4-storey, 105-unit apartment to public hearing.
The approximately 1.9 acre mixed-use development in the 32000 Block of Fletcher Avenue would contain 97-units at market price, eight affordable units, seven commercial units and a daycare, according to the staff report.
No density bonusing is being sought in exchange for the affordable units, as the developers are seeking funding through a partnership with higher levels of government, the report says.
A 20-year housing agreement has been proposed with affordable rates not exceeding 30 per cent of a tenant’s income as set by BC Housing, and will include a mix of one and two bedroom units.
The property is located on a plateau above Lougheed Highway, with the eastern edge sloping towards Mission Gateway Plaza. Mission Memorial Hospital is located to the north and west, and other commercial developments sit to the south and east.
The application would redevelop vacant land, and fits the neighbourhood character, staff report.
The design includes siding with earth-toned colours and brick veneer, semi-recessed balconies, several pedestrian and bicycle access points, parking and weather protection for store fronts, and landscaped outdoor seating for patrons and residents.
A transit stop on Hurd Street would be located approximately 40 metres away from the building, and a proposed road design would enhance access through an improved pedestrian crossing.
The developer’s traffic engineer, and the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure have recommended that left turns from Fletcher Avenue onto Hurd Street be restricted during peak traffic hours.
Several councillors said they struggled with not allowing left turns for the 100 plus potential residents. They’ve asked staff to assess other options for the next reading.
“Where are they going to go? Are they going to start driving up and adding pressure, going up Hurd Street and on to 7th Avenue?” said Coun. Jag Gill.