Those nestled in what is known as Edmonton’s urban warehouse district are cautiously optimistic about a five-year pilot project — especially in regards to residential parking.
Zoning for the downtown plan was approved by council Monday and, moving forward, housing developers will not be required to include parking in the district, which stretches from 105 to 109 streets, north from Jasper Avenue to 104 Avenue.
Tom McFall, executive director of the Alberta Arts Council on 106 Street and 101 Avenue, said he is drawn to areas that “aren’t car places,” listing Queen Street in Toronto and the hub of Portland, Ore., as attractive for that reason, adding such areas focus on walkability and transit, fitting into the city’s goal for downtown Edmonton.
Duncan Fraser, senior planner and project manager, said developing an underground parking space ranges from $30,000 to $70,000, deterring many developers. Including the parking can make for expensive construction and housing costs.
Coun. Kerry Diotte said the market will determine whether or not the plan works.
