15-storey tower proposed
Show me the money, says West Vancouver councillor Bill Soprovich.
Before council gets too excited about the proposed mixed-use development on the current Safeway site on Marine Drive, Soprovich wants to know how much money the district can expect from the project.
Staff are examining the value added to the property through rezoning, a figure Soprovich said is crucial when estimating what the district can request in community amenities.
“That has to be presented sooner, rather than later,” he told council Monday night.
H.Y. Louie Group, which owns the 1650 Marine Drive site, is proposing two options for the 1.4-acre property. Both designs include a 41,000-square-foot food store below street level, 16,800 square feet of above ground retail and office space and between 144 and 154 residential units.
The difference between the designs comes down to the residential tower. Option A proposes a 15-storey building while option B drafts in a 10-storey structure. The drafts also include a courtyard in the middle of the structure and open public spaces surrounding the development.
The project is in its early stages, said Geri Boyle, West Van’s community planning manager.
“We have to examine the impacts on traffic,” she noted.
Even though the proposal is in its infancy, Ambleside businesses are excited to see the development move forward, said Maggie Pappas, West Vancouver Chambers of Commerce vice-president. The proposed 80 to 120 public parking spaces are needed in the area and the development’s construction will provide employment opportunities, she said.
“The [developments] 300-plus residents will shop and dine in the area,” Pappas added.
raldous@northshoreoutlook.com
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