A proposed new five-storey, 148-suite apartment building in Clearview Ridge has been recommended for Red Deer city council's approval.
With a local vacancy rate of near zero, Red Deer needs more apartments. And the proposed L-shaped development at 6 Colby Avenue, at Clearview Market Square, fits with city policies of providing a range of housing opportunities for different family sizes, age ranges and income levels, states a report to council.
"The applicant's letter of intent indicates that the units will be affordable rentals," added the report from senior development officer Debbie Hill. She noted that 22 of the apartment units would be built for low-income tenants, and some of these tenants may not own vehicles.
Nearby landowners have not been consulted about this proposed development since an apartment building is a permitted use of this site and was identified in the 2009 Clearview North Neighbourhood Area Structure Plan.
According to the rationale for approval, which will be presented to council at Monday's meeting, the requested 15 per cent variance on the minimum parking requirements, amounting to a shortage of 35 spots, is considered "minimal."
Planners say it can be dealt with through a secured shared parking agreement with the McDonald's Restaurant next door.
City administration recommends city council approve this development permit, with some conditions, because the "overall intent of the site is maintained." The Colby Avenue lot, at the corner of Carrington Drive and Carleton Avenue, was intended for high-density residential development.
While layout changes will mean pedestrians will have to circulate around the site, instead of cutting through it, "this should not unduly affect pedestrian access to Clearview North or impact the functionality of the site," states the report.
The development is seen by planners as checking off a lot of city council's requirements for housing. It will create an integrated and sustainable community that's close to amenities, such as shopping, parks, a school and transit. Land and existing infrastructure would be used efficiently, there would be a range of housing types, and it would provide housing for a mixture of ages and income groups, with walking and cycling options.
If approved, the 19-metre high building would be faced with stacked stone, vertical and horizontal siding and stucco.
Council is expected to discuss this proposal at Monday's meeting.