A transformative ‘Gateway’ project at the north end of City Centre along King George Blvd at Bolivar Rd received 1st & 2nd Readings at Council on Monday, and will now proceed to Public Hearing on January 13. The project, which has been in the planning stages for nearly 5 years, initially appeared before Council back in April 2018, but was referred back to Staff to work with the applicant on refining the proposal, and to determine a ‘significant amenity contribution’ in exchange for increased density on the site. Since then, the project, designed by Vancouver’s MCM Architects has undergone significant design refinements to create an ‘iconic’ gateway development consisting of 1,040 units within:

• 37-Storey Residential Tower above a 7-Storey podium
• 31-Storey Residential Tower above a 6-Storey podium
• 26-Storey Residential Tower above a 6-Storey podium
• Two 6-Storey Low-Rise Residential Buildings
• A 5,673 sq.ft. Childcare Facility
• A small Cafe

Under the current application however, only the 26-Storey Residential Tower, Childcare Facility, Cafe, and a large ‘Orchard Plaza’ will be built as a first phase at the corner of King George Blvd and Bolivar Rd. The remainder of the development will be subject to future detailed Development Permit applications. The first phase tower will consist of 239 units, with the Childcare Facility and Cafe at its base. The large interior ‘Orchard Plaza’ design by Vancouver’s PWL Partnership Landscape Architects is intended to “celebrate connections to local agriculture” and will incorporate fruit trees within moveable planters, in addition to seating, an open lawn space, playground space, and an interactive stormwater capturing feature.

View looking south on King George Blvd from Bolivar Rd View looking south along Barker St from Bolivar Rd View of interior ‘Orchard Plaza’ from Barker St Close-up view of interior ‘Orchard Plaza’ with interactive stormwater feature View of Cafe and plaza at corner of King George and Bolivar within Phase 1 Public realm entry into interior of site from King George Blvd View looking north along King George Blvd of landscaped sidewalk and bike path Proposed Phasing Plan Landscape Site Plan

Overall, the proposal is proposing a blended density of 4.2 FAR on the site, which exceeds the currently permitted 2.5 FAR in that area of the City Centre Plan, intended for 4-6-Storey development. As a condition of allowing the increased density, the developer is offering a significant community amenity contribution above and beyond what is required, as well as providing a significant number of ‘family-sized units’ of 2-bedrooms or larger.

In addition to the development itself, significant upgrades will be made to surrounding streets including an expansive new landscaped sidewalk and separated bike path along King George Blvd, and new dedication and construction of Barker Street to the north.

For more on the application:

https://www.surrey.ca/bylawsandcouncillibrary/PLR_7917-0397-00.pdf

Vancouver developer Rize is set to bring their latest and most ambitious project to date before Surrey Council on Monday for 1st & 2nd Readings, and approval to proceed to Public Hearing. Passages as it’s called, is a proposed master-planned mixed-use development at 10138 Whalley Blvd consisting of market condos, market rental apartments, retail, and daycare space, all situated within a European-style ‘piazza’ public plaza. In total the project is proposing:

• 3 High-Rise towers and 1 Low-Rise (6, 23, 32 & 39 Storeys) containing 954 Market Condo Residential Units
• 2 Mid-Rise towers (13 Storeys each) containing 172 Market Rental Residential Units
• 18,116 sq.ft. of Ground Level Retail Space
• 4,252 sq.ft. of Daycare Space
• A 69,602 sq.ft. Publicly Accessible ‘Piazza’-Style Public Plaza

Rendering of central public ‘Piazza’ space within Passages development

Designed by London, UK based Alison Brooks Architects, Passages brings a fresh departure from the standard point tower above podium form, commonly found throughout Metro Vancouver. Instead, the project consists of 6 irregularly-shaped buildings of varying heights, clustered around a ‘Piazza’-style public plaza.

The design takes inspiration from coastal BC forests, incorporating references to ‘textured tree bark’ on building facades, and the use of earth tones and materials. Interspersed single and double-storey units are present throughout the towers, adding variation in form and glazing pattern. The 6-storey building is a modern interpretation of the traditional ‘British mansion block’ merged with ground floor townhouses.

The site’s perimeter and courtyard are structured as open, barrier-free spaces that the public and residents can share and enjoy. A series of four distinct piazzas, City Piazza, Park Piazza, Central Piazza and Neighbourhood Piazza, are linked by narrow urban groves between buildings and enriched streetscape edges.

The Landscape Architect on the project is Vancouver’s PWL Partnership tasked with designing the publicly accessibly open spaces comprised of the four landscaped piazzas. These spaces are animated with community agricultural gardens, an urban square with seating, a children’s play area, a great lawn for event and performance space, a yoga and exercise zone, a community harvest table, and an outdoor barbeque and games table space to encourage the public and residents to interact and socialize.

Passages will replace two existing and aging, wood-frame, 4-storey apartment buildings known as Fraserview Court, built in the 1970’s. Rize is proposing to offset the loss of the 154 existing rental residential units on site by providing 172 new rental residential units in two new 13-Storey concrete mid-rises as part of re-development. These rental units will be secured for a period of 20-years, through a Housing Agreement with the City. Rize is also assisting existing residents facing displacement through a City policy directed Tenant Relocation and Assistance Plan.

The project is proposed to be built in 3 phases, which includes:

Phase 1 (Targeted Completion: May 2023)

• 13-Storey Mid-Rise with Market Rental Residential (88 Units), Ground Floor Cafe, and Daycare
• 23-Storey High-Rise with Market Condo Residential (212 Units)

Phase 2 (Targeted Completion: June 2024)

• 6-Storey Low-Rise with Market Condo Residential (66 Units)
• 32-Storey High-Rise with Market Condo Residential (304 Units), and Ground Level Retail

Phase 3 (Targeted Completion: August 2024)

• 13-Storey Mid-Rise with Market Rental Residential (84 Units), and Ground Level Retail
• 39-Storey High-Rise with Market Condo Residential (372 Units)

In terms of approvals, the development is seeking:

• City Centre Plan amendment to increase density on the site from 3.5 FAR to 5.5 FAR
• Official Community Plan amendment to increase density on the site from 3.5 FAR to 5.5 FAR
• Rezoning from Multiple Residential 45 Zone to Comprehensive Development Zone (Based on RM-135 & C-8)
• Subdivision from 1 to 3 lots
• Development Permit to allow for 3 High-Rise Buildings, 2 Mid-Rise Buildings, and 1 Low-Rise Building.

For more information on Passages:

https://www.surrey.ca/bylawsandcouncillibrary/PLR_7918-0289-00.pdf

A transformative ‘Gateway’ project at the north end of City Centre along King George Blvd at Bolivar Rd received 1st & 2nd Readings at Council on Monday, and will now proceed to Public Hearing on January 13. The project, which has been in the planning stages for nearly 5 years, initially appeared before Council back in April 2018, but was referred back to Staff to work with the applicant on refining the proposal, and to determine a ‘significant amenity contribution’ in exchange for increased density on the site. Since then, the project, designed by Vancouver’s MCM Architects has undergone significant design refinements to create an ‘iconic’ gateway development consisting of 1,040 units within:

• 37-Storey Residential Tower above a 7-Storey podium
• 31-Storey Residential Tower above a 6-Storey podium
• 26-Storey Residential Tower above a 6-Storey podium
• Two 6-Storey Low-Rise Residential Buildings
• A 5,673 sq.ft. Childcare Facility
• A small Cafe

Under the current application however, only the 26-Storey Residential Tower, Childcare Facility, Cafe, and a large ‘Orchard Plaza’ will be built as a first phase at the corner of King George Blvd and Bolivar Rd. The remainder of the development will be subject to future detailed Development Permit applications. The first phase tower will consist of 239 units, with the Childcare Facility and Cafe at its base. The large interior ‘Orchard Plaza’ design by Vancouver’s PWL Partnership Landscape Architects is intended to “celebrate connections to local agriculture” and will incorporate fruit trees within moveable planters, in addition to seating, an open lawn space, playground space, and an interactive stormwater capturing feature.

View looking south on King George Blvd from Bolivar Rd View looking south along Barker St from Bolivar Rd View of interior ‘Orchard Plaza’ from Barker St Close-up view of interior ‘Orchard Plaza’ with interactive stormwater feature View of Cafe and plaza at corner of King George and Bolivar within Phase 1 Public realm entry into interior of site from King George Blvd View looking north along King George Blvd of landscaped sidewalk and bike path Proposed Phasing Plan Landscape Site Plan

Overall, the proposal is proposing a blended density of 4.2 FAR on the site, which exceeds the currently permitted 2.5 FAR in that area of the City Centre Plan, intended for 4-6-Storey development. As a condition of allowing the increased density, the developer is offering a significant community amenity contribution above and beyond what is required, as well as providing a significant number of ‘family-sized units’ of 2-bedrooms or larger.

In addition to the development itself, significant upgrades will be made to surrounding streets including an expansive new landscaped sidewalk and separated bike path along King George Blvd, and new dedication and construction of Barker Street to the north.

For more on the application:

https://www.surrey.ca/bylawsandcouncillibrary/PLR_7917-0397-00.pdf

A heritage revitalization project being proposed by Vancouver developer Rize Alliance at 9656 King George Blvd just north of Surrey Memorial Hospital, received unanimous approval by Surrey’s Advisory Design Panel (ADP) on February 14. The project, which must still appear before Council for approvals, is proposing to restore the 1969-built North Surrey Medical Building, while adding a new ‘twin’ commercial podium, and residential tower to the site.

The North Surrey Medical Building is listed in the Surrey City Centre Plan as a ‘Potential Heritage Resource’. If approved, the project will officially add the building to the City’s Heritage Register, and help to preserve and enhance mid-century heritage within the City Centre – a goal of the City Centre Plan.

Subject Site at 9656 King George Blvd

Aside from the Heritage Revitalization Agreement for the North Surrey Medical Building, the proposal is seeking to Rezone the subject site from CHI to CD, Consolidate 2 lots into 1, and obtain a Development Permit in order to construct 276 residential units and 1486 sq. m. of commercial space. The new commercial space is to occupy a new ‘twin’ 4-storey podium consisting of ground floor retail and 3 floors of office – adjacent to and resembling the original 1960’s building.

Now that the project has passed ADP – it can be expected to appear before Council within the coming months. More renderings and project details can also be expected at that time.

For more on the proposal: https://apps.surrey.ca/Online-Development-Inquiry/?year=18&seq=0276

An open house was held on Nov 30 to discuss the future of Forsyth Park, a new 3 hectare park in the north-east area of the City Centre near 106th & 140th St. The City of Surrey has been acquiring properties for the park since 1989 and is now ready to embark on its first phase of development, beginning with public consultation and design this winter, and moving into construction by summer in time for a fall 2017 opening. With the area slowly starting to densify with recent multi-family projects such as Porte Communities’ HQ directly south of the park, the timing is now right to develop such an amenity space in the area.

As part of the open house that was held, a number of display boards were presented that provided a preliminary concept of what the park may look like, with this likely to be modified based on comments received from the open house. The park is envisioned to be a ‘Contemporary Urban Place’ for neighbourhood residents to enjoy the outdoors, play, and bring their dogs. One of the boards also provided a glimpse of how this park will tie into a network of greenways, spaces, and parks throughout the city centre as it develops over the next few decades. This illustrative plan also gives a good impression of how the City Centre itself will transform over-time, with a finer grained street grid, and a more compact urban form. See below for images.

http://www.surrey.ca/culture-recreation/2076.aspx

Illustrative Plan close-up of the Surrey Central area:

Illustrative Plan close-up of the King George area:

A development application has been submitted for a mixed-use tower at 10731 King George Blvd just south of 108 Avenue. The subject site is made up of 3 existing lots which currently contain a run-down 2-storey commercial/residential building, and a 1-storey medical clinic.

The subject application is proposing to consolidate the 3 lots into 1, rezone the site from CHI to CD (based on RM-135 and C-15), as well amend the City Centre Plan to permit a 345-unit mixed-use development. The site is currently designated ‘Mixed-Use (3.5 FAR)’ under the City Centre Plan. In addition to redevelopment of the site, the application would also dedicate a portion of future 107A Avenue just to the South. The 2 adjacent properties to the South are currently owned by the City for the purposes of completing this new road connection.

View of Site from King George Blvd Subject Site within City Centre Plan – Designated Mixed-Use 3.5 FAR

The subject site is located directly across King George Blvd from Tien Sher’s anticipated ‘Whalley District’ development, set to replace the recently closed-down Flamingo Hotel and Bar. Combined, both projects would mark the beginning of renewal and transformation of the area surrounding King George & 108 Avenue, which has become notoriously run-down over the past few decades. This area is designated as a ‘Historic District’ in the City Centre Plan, due to its historical significance as the place of Surrey’s early urban beginnings surrounding the former ‘Whalley’s Corner’ Gas Stop.

For more on the application:

https://apps.surrey.ca/Online-Development-Inquiry/?year=19&seq=0048

A 5-storey condo building proposed for the corner of Grosvenor Road and Whalley Blvd received 1st & 2nd readings at Council Monday night. The project, which was first announced back in April 2017, and is being developed by Tien Sher, will become the developer’s 6th building in the area, after Quattro 1, 2, 3, Balance, and the now under construction Venue. Tien sher’s other major project in the area Whalley District, was recently approved back in June, and should begin construction on its first phase in 2018.

This latest building to be added to Tien Sher’s portfolio in the area will further help to transition the neighbourhood into an up and coming urban district close to Gateway Station. From the planning report to Council, the project is to consist of:

• 125 Units consisting of 1-bedroom/flex, 2-bedroom/flex, and 3-bedroom apartments

Ground-oriented units are proposed to be oriented toward the street with their own front door, entry gates, and semi-private outdoor space, which will help to urbanize the streetscape that the building fronts. The project is expected to be completed by late 2019.

Project site within City Centre Plan

For more on the project:

http://www.surrey.ca/bylawsandcouncillibrary/PLR_7917-0110-00.pdf

Developer Tien Sher Group held a packed Town Hall meeting today to present their vision and plans for a revitalized Whalley. Dubbed ‘Whalley District’, the plan is for a development consisting of 3 high-rise condo towers and 1 low-rise condo building over a mix of commercial, retail, community, and plaza space on the south-east corner of 108 Ave and King George Blvd in the historic heart of Whalley. Tien Sher has already developed the neighbouring ‘Quatto’ project at Whalley Blvd and 108 Ave, along with ‘Balance’ on Grosvenor Rd, and the currently under construction ‘Venue’. 

While news of the development is not new, having been under application since 2015, what is new is their now announced plans to partner with a local arts group to bring a significant arts component to the project as a means to revitalize and bring culture to the Whalley area. It is expected that community space will be provided in the development for the non-profit arts group and their programming.

At the meeting, Tien Sher presented their plans for the introduction of a pedestrian-only street through the centre of the development dubbed the ‘Flamingo Block’ on what would be future 136A St. The Flamingo name comes from the long-standing Flamingo Hotel which has been on the site since the 1950’s, but will be torn down to make way for the development. At present, the City of Surrey wishes to see this as a future road open to traffic, however Tien Sher is leading a petition to build it as a pedestrian-only street where public art, cultural programming, and gathering could take place. This would compliment an additional proposed plaza/park on the corner of 108 & King George, also to be build as part of the development.

The project, which is expected to appear before council for preliminary approvals and public hearing before summer, is to be built in phases beginning with a 6-storey condo building with retail below along Whalley Blvd at the east end of the site. This will then be followed by phases 2-4 consisting of a 35-storey, 37-storey, and lastly a 46-storey condo tower(s) above commercial, retail, and arts/community space. It is expected that the first phase of the project will break ground by Spring 2018.

In the meantime, the arts group is looking to engage arts initiatives around the City Centre right away, and is seeking anyone who would like to become involved. Ideas for arts initiatives that can be introduced in the City Centre are wide ranging, from murals, public art, beatification projects, community groups, activities, and more.

For more information on Whalley District, to get involved, and to sign their arts & culture petition, visit: http://whalleydistrict.com

For more information and to get involved with the Flamingo Square Arts Connection, join their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Flamingo-Square-Arts-Connection-754586634722551/

Georgetown’s first 30-storey residential tower above grocery at 102 Ave & Whalley Blvd

Anthem Properties’ has given us a first look at the first phase of its much anticipated ‘Georgetown’ development at 102 Avenue between King George Blvd and Whalley Blvd. According to the Fall 2017 Anthem Newsletter, the project, which will include 6 residential towers in total above a mix of office, retail, and townhomes, will begin with a single 30-storey tower above a grocery store and retail at the corner of Whalley Blvd and 102 Avenue. While the render indicates a targeted construction begin date of Summer 2018, it could be more likely 2019 given the project has not yet received preliminary or final approval, and has yet to begin marketing units.

The new tower and retail will replace a standalone A&W restaurant currently on the corner, along with underutilized surface parking. The first phase will also dedicate and construct a new section of 102A Avenue through the site, connecting Whalley Blvd to King George Blvd, and eventually continue west through to the GEC Education Mega Centre and Surrey Central Station. Future phases to the north of 102A will replace the current Save-on-Foods and Canadian Tire stores with a mix of retail, residential, office, townhomes, and plaza space, along with 3 more new streets, including a new section of Central Avenue.

Overall Site Plan for Georgetown Concept Model of Georgetown

The proposed signage package for 3 Civic Plaza will appear before Council on Monday for approval. The current package is an update to a previous signage package put together back in 2014. The new package presents a more refined and unified look to the signage across the building, which will include signage for:

• Civic Hotel
• KPU
• Prado Cafe
• Dominion Bar & Kitchen
• Various Retail Units
• Various wayfinding signs around the perimeter of building

Already ahead of the Signage Development Permit approval, the main Civic Hotel logo appeared this week at the top of the 52-storey tower on the north side. A similar logo is also set to be installed on the tower’s south side.

Civic Hotel Logo installation underway on October 17 Civic Hotel Logo installation on top of the 52-Storey tower North side hotel logo fully installed on October 19

Proposed Signage Package

Rendering of Civic Hotel signage on podium Signage Package fronting Civic Plaza Signage Package on North and South sides of building Signage Package for retail frontage along City Parkway Civic Hotel signage fronting Plaza detail Civic Hotel signage on South side of podium detail KPU Signage detail on north side of podium facing Plaza Wayfinding signage detail Wayfinding signage detail Retail unit signage detail along City Parkway Retail unit ‘Arrival’ signage detail featuring signature guitar pic and diamond perforated pattern

For more details on the signage package:

https://www.surrey.ca/bylawsandcouncillibrary/PLR_7914-0112-00.pdf

Site of 25-storey tower proposal (highlighted in red) A new proposal has been submitted by Chris Dikeakos Architects for a 25-storey residential tower with a mixed-use podium at 9677 King George Blvd just north of 96th Avenue. The site is currently home to a Knight & Day Restaurant, next to the Canada Revenue Agency building.

Prior to the current proposal, a rezoning application had been underway since 2009 by a separate applicant for an 18-storey tower consisting of retail, medical offices, a care facility, and condos on the same site. Despite that application receiving 3rd Reading (preliminary approval) back in 2010, the project did not end up proceeding to 4th reading (final adoption).

Previous (now defunct) application for site for an 18-storey tower on the same site by Atelier Pacific Architects. Under the current application, Chris Dikeakos Architects is applying to rezone the property from C-8 to CD, consolidate 2 lots into 1 lot, and obtain a Development Permit to allow for the construction of a 25-storey residential tower with a mixed-use podium. While no renderings of the new project have yet to be released, the tower will add to the growing number of Chris Dikeaos designed towers underway and in the planning stages for City Centre. Already, Chris Dikeaos Architects is the architect on:

The proposed tower will also add to a number of tower projects set to get underway in the immediate vicinity, including a 30-storey Condo / Hampton Hotel just to the north at 98th Ave and King George; Phase B of King George Hub, Innovation Village, and Lark Group’s City Centre 2 and 3.

The GEC Education Mega Centre project reached a milestone on Oct 2, receiving 1st and 2nd readings before Surrey Council. The proposed 55-storey tower, set to become Metro Vancouver’s 2nd tallest, will now proceed to Public Hearing for 3rd Reading (Preliminary Approval) on October 23rd.

Proposal

From the planning report to council on Oct 2, the proposed development is to consist of a 55-storey tower with a mix of academic, commercial and residential uses at a density of 12.25 FAR. This will include:

• A 6-storey podium with 486 square metres (5,233 sq.ft.) of ground-level commercial retail space, and 5 storeys of college/academic space, including classrooms and offices.
• 33 floors dedicated to fully-furnished “serviced apartments” for students (subject to a housing agreement to ensure student occupancy)
• 12 floors of flexible accommodation that provide “short-stay” (not more than 182 days in a 12-month period) hotel accommodations

As part of this application, a portion of 102A Avenue will be dedicated and constructed, along with widening along City Parkway. A new signalized intersection at City Parkway and 102A Avenue will also be delivered.

Discounting the land to be dedicated for road, the proposed Education Centre has a net density of 18.25 FAR.

Developer

The project is being developed under a partnership between Surrey-based developer WestStone Group, and Vancouver-based CIBT Education Group. CIBT Education Group is an education provider that targets primarily international students, and operates Sprott Shaw College, Sprott Shaw Language College, Vancouver International College and CIBT School of Business, amongst others.

CIBT Education Group offers business and management programs and other vocational programs through these schools. Specifically, the Education Centre is intended to offer programs that will integrate with the services and functions proposed in the City’s Innovation Boulevard plans, including in the fields of medical assistance and facility operations.

Road Dedication

As part of the proposal, the project will dedicate approximately 7 metres for the widening of City Parkway, which will be required to accommodate the future LRT line and stop, as well as a new sidewalk and a separated bike lane. A new portion of 102A Avenue will also be constructed along the north property line, and a new lane will be constructed through the podium of the building running north-south towards the rear of the site.

Design Features

The project will feature an outdoor plaza at the northwest corner of the site, where the building is supported by a 4-storey fork column to create an open, bright, publicly accessible open space.

In order to provide articulation in the tower, differentiation has been introduced at the amenity levels by setting the glass back and opening up the floor plate to provide outdoor amenity space. LED lighting will be provided to highlight the undersides of each amenity level in the tower.

A Commercial Retail Unit (CRU) fronts City Parkway and wraps onto the outdoor plaza to bring additional activity into the space. The main lobby fronts 102A Avenue and also wraps onto the outdoor plaza. A second, smaller CRU fronts 102A Avenue.

The podium and tower base will provide a strong urban edge and street wall along City Parkway and 102A Avenue.

For more information on the project:

http://www.surrey.ca/bylawsandcouncillibrary/PLR_7917-0159-00%20(2).pdf

A date has finally been set for the official closure of the North Surrey Recreation Centre to make way for the site’s long anticipated redevelopment. In a notice posted on the recreation centre website, the facility is planned to close in 2 phases beginning with a decommissioning of the ice rinks in early September, and finally a closure of the remaining portions of the building on December 22. Ice rink programming will move to the new North Surrey Sport & Ice Complex, set to open on September 3 near Scott Road Station. Following that in January, Aquatics programs will move to Guildford Recreation Centre, fitness and multi-purpose activities to North Surrey Sport & Ice Complex, and preschool programs to Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre.

New North Surrey Sport & Ice Complex

While no timeline has been given for the site’s redevelopment following decommissioning, behind-the-scenes planning work has been underway for years, dating back to 2012. Since then, the City has been working with Simon Fraser University, TransLink, and various architects, planners, and consultants, on a master plan for what is known as the ‘Centre Block’ bounded by Central Avenue to the north, 102 Avenue to the south, University Drive to the west, and City Parkway to the east. Well-positioned adjacent to Surrey Central SkyTrain Station, the site forms a key link between Surrey City Hall / Civic Plaza to the north, and the Central City Complex and beyond to the south.

Back in 2013, Via Architecture prepared a ‘vision’ for what redevelopment could look like in the future. The concept envisioned a numerous mixed-use buildings for the site integrated with a transit-oriented plaza linking City Hall to Central City. The buildings would contain office, university, and retail space. The plan also envisioned:

• A new bus layover facility to be located on 133A St behind the new SFU Engineering building.
• A removal and re-configuring of the Surrey Central Bus Exchange – replacing the loop with a new street-oriented exchange along a realigned 102A Avenue and Central Avenue. The 2 streets would be integrated with a new Transit Plaza, designed to accommodate high pedestrian and bus passenger volumes.

Centre Block location between Civic Plaza and Central City Early vision for the Centre Block prepared by Via Architecture in 2013

Since the early Via Architecture vision, a more recent planning process has been underway following a Surrey City Development Corp (SCDC) RFP was filled seeking a new firm to undertake detailed master planning work for the Centre Block site. While no plans have been publicly released yet, what is expected is a major overhaul of Surrey Central Station linked with a new transit-oriented plaza connecting Civic Plaza to Central City, and integrated with over 2 million square feet of new office, university, and retail space. With such a large scale, the plan is expected to be completed in phases, with various puzzle pieces and phasing needing to take place before other phases can begin. The first of those pieces is the decommissioning and demolition of the North Surrey Recreation Centre. The second will be the construction of the new bus layover facility on 133 Street, allowing for removal of the current Bus Loop, and re-alignment of 102A Avenue through it.

With the North Surrey Rec Centre decommissioning now in sight, the pieces are finally coming together to make the Centre Block redevelopment a reality. While the project is likely to take at least a decade to build-out, we could see the start of application activity related to it in the coming year.

For more on the North Surrey Recreation Centre closing:

https://www.surrey.ca/bylawsandcouncillibrary/CR_2019-R133.pdf

Bosa Properties has submitted an application for their next phase of University District, to be located on the former Brick / Sears outlet site just north of the Safeway near 104 Avenue and City Parkway. This next phase is to follow Phase 2, known as ‘Blue Sky‘ which is currently in pre-sales and expected to begin construction in 2019.

Details of the new application indicate that the project is proposing 1,134 residential units and 104,300 SF of commercial space. This is likely to translate into up to 4 residential towers above podiums and significant commercial / retail space.

The site, which includes 2 properties – 13583 104 Ave & 13550 105 Ave spans an entire block, with frontages on 104 Ave, 105 Ave and City Parkway. The site also spans 2 designations under the City Centre Plan – with the south portion of the site designated for Mixed-Use/High-Rise (5.5 FAR), and the north portion designated for Mixed-Use/High-Rise (3.5 FAR). The City Centre Plan allows for density bonuses of 20%, meaning the project FAR will likely be proposed higher than what is designated.

View of Subject Site looking north-west from 104 Ave

The subject site is a key location in City Centre, in the civic core, just to the north of City Hall and Civic Plaza. Well-fitted to a project at this high profile location, the applicant on the file is Perkins + Will, a renowned international architecture and urban design firm with an office in Vancouver.

In development of the site, the project will also dedicate and construct a new urban ‘green lane’ running east-west across the site, as well as re-align the intersection of 104 Avenue and City Parkway. This will result in a continuous City Parkway between Surrey Central and Gateway – and help bridge the gap between these 2 areas of City Centre.

For more on the application:

https://apps.surrey.ca/Online-Development-Inquiry/?year=18&seq=0350

Bosa’s BlueSky Properties received 1st & 2nd readings by Council on Monday night for their upcoming, recently re-branded, ‘BlueSky’ project at 104 Avenue and University Drive. The project, previously thought to become the next phase of ‘University District‘ is now set for Public Hearing and 3rd reading (preliminary approval) on July 9.

Released in the Planning Report to Council on Monday were updated renderings for the project, superseding a previous design from the original 2011 application on the site. As part of the new 2018 application, tower heights have increased to 28 & 37 storeys, and incorporate a more contemporary ‘box-shaped’ architectural design. In addition, a new north-south lane will be dedicated along the site’s eastern property line, as per the City Centre Plan, helping to achieve a finer-grained road network.

View of proposed towers facing west View of proposed towers facing east Rendering of 3-storey townhouse podium fronting University Dr Rendering of amenity podium with ground floor retail and rooftop pool at 104 Ave & University Dr

Designed by Vancouver’s ZGF Architects, the two condo towers will contain a total of 742 units above a 3-storey townhouse base fronting both 105 Ave & University Dr, and 4-storey amenity podium with ground floor retail and rooftop pool at the corner of University Dr & 104 Ave. The project will create a strong urban streetscape along both University Dr and 105 Ave, and help transition density further northward from the city’s emerging civic core. The project is targeted for completion and occupancy by summer 2022.

For more on the application, the full Planning Report to Council can be found here:

https://www.surrey.ca/bylawsandcouncillibrary/PLR_7918-0058-00.pdf

Photo update of Bosa Properties’ Gateway Place taken on April 17, 2017. Project is nearing completion with sidewalk fencing now removed, and work on the interior retail and office space underway. Expected completion and move-in of retail tenants likely by Summer 2017.

Looking east on 108 Avenue next to Station Tower

Looking north into the public plaza between Station Tower and Gateway Place

Metal grating installed for green-wall planting on the west side of Gateway Place 

Future green-wall and public plaza between Station Tower and Gateway Place

View from 108 Avenue looking north-east

View from 108 Avenue looking north-west

View looking west on 108 Avenue towards Gateway Station

New sidewalk and separated bike path looking north on City Parkway

New sidewalk and separated bike path looking south on City Parkway. 

Future location of Nester’s Market and cafe along City Parkway

View from Gateway Station

BOSA Properties’ Gateway Place is nearing completion at 108 Ave & City Parkway near Gateway Skytrain Station. The 5-storey office and retail building which began construction back in 2015 was originally scheduled for completion in Summer 2016, but with slow-pace of construction, is now more on track for a Summer 2017 completion. When finished, the building will house 4 levels of office over ground floor retail, with a Nesters Market, Shoppers Drug Mart, and TD Bank already signed on as tenants.

Designed by IBI Group Architects, the building will bring an improved urban streetscape to the area, with high quality landscape design and materials to be included as part of the sidewalk along City Parkway. The building will also feature a living green wall along its western side facing Station Tower and the SkyTrain. The building is Phase A of a 3-Phase development which will see 2 high-rise residential towers constructed directly north of the retail podium along City Parkway as future Phases B and C.

Construction Progress: February 2, 2017

Project Renderings

Bosa Properties’ University District is progressing with work continuing on the interior as well as balconies, exterior finishing touches, and sidewalk. While not scheduled for completion until later this year, the building has already transformed the area, creating a very urban, downtown streetscape along 104 Avenue, which will only improve with opening of the building’s retail. According to Form Leasing’s website, there are 5 units available which have not yet been leased.

http://form.ca/universitydistrict.pdf

The construction hoarding has finally come down at Bosa Property’s University District at 104 Ave & University Dr. Work continues on the exterior and interior of the building as it gets a coat of white paint, new sidewalks, and other finishing touches.

No sign yet on what retail may be going in at street level. There are currently 5 retail units listed for lease on form.ca ranging between 490 – 922 sq.ft. The 2nd floor of the podium is up for lease as office space with a total of 5,603 sq.ft. Availability is set for Q1 2017.

http://form.ca/universitydistrict.pdf

A heritage revitalization project being proposed by Vancouver developer Rize Alliance at 9656 King George Blvd just north of Surrey Memorial Hospital, received unanimous approval by Surrey’s Advisory Design Panel (ADP) on February 14. The project, which must still appear before Council for approvals, is proposing to restore the 1969-built North Surrey Medical Building, while adding a new ‘twin’ commercial podium, and residential tower to the site.

The North Surrey Medical Building is listed in the Surrey City Centre Plan as a ‘Potential Heritage Resource’. If approved, the project will officially add the building to the City’s Heritage Register, and help to preserve and enhance mid-century heritage within the City Centre – a goal of the City Centre Plan.

Subject Site at 9656 King George Blvd

Aside from the Heritage Revitalization Agreement for the North Surrey Medical Building, the proposal is seeking to Rezone the subject site from CHI to CD, Consolidate 2 lots into 1, and obtain a Development Permit in order to construct 276 residential units and 1486 sq. m. of commercial space. The new commercial space is to occupy a new ‘twin’ 4-storey podium consisting of ground floor retail and 3 floors of office – adjacent to and resembling the original 1960’s building.

Now that the project has passed ADP – it can be expected to appear before Council within the coming months. More renderings and project details can also be expected at that time.

For more on the proposal: https://apps.surrey.ca/Online-Development-Inquiry/?year=18&seq=0276

The May Issue of the City Centre Update is now available at SurreyCityCentre.ca. This month’s newsletter includes a round-up of new Development Applications, Council Approvals, and Construction activity during the past month of April 2021.

New Development Applications

One new development application was submitted in City Centre during the past month – a 6-Storey residential project located at 100A Ave & 133 St to the west of Holland Park.

21-0090 | 100A Ave & 133 St

A Rezoning, Subdivision, and Development Permit application was submitted in April for a proposed 6-Storey residential project consisting of 101 units at 100A Ave & 133 St. The site is located just south of two other 6-Storey residential projects under application, which together will begin to transition this existing Single Family area into a more urban low-rise multi-family residential district.

Initial Review Map

As of May 2021, there are 26 major development applications under initial review, consisting of approximately 30 high-rises, and 21 low-rises.

Council Approvals

Four projects received approvals from Surrey City Council during the past month.

18 – 0096 | 138 St & 105 Ave

This 6-Storey residential project located on a small 1/4 acre lot at the corner of 138 St & 105 Ave recived 3rd Reading (Preliminary Approval) in April. Due to its small and unique footprint for Surrey, the building will consist of just 28 units of rental housing. Completion is expected by 2024.

19 – 0004 | Park Central

This 6-Storey residential project on Old Yale Road just west of Holland Park recived 3rd Reading (Preliminary Approval) in April. Being developed by Peace Enterprises, the project will bring 43 rental units to the area along with a new extension of 133 Street south along the west side of the site. Completion is expected by 2024.

19 – 0367 | Whalley Station

Tien Sher Group received preliminary approval in April for for their 51-Storey mixed-use ‘Whalley Station’ project located at King George Blvd and 108 Ave. The tower is to become Surrey’s tallest building once completed, with 501 residential units above a 6-storey office and retail podium. The development will also create a new plaza on the south west corner of King George & 108 Ave leading into a grand 6-Storey atrium through the site. The current application is for a general development permit and rezoning only, with a separate detailed development permit application expected in the future.

20 – 0149 | Holland Parkside (Phase 1)

Phase 1 of Century Group’s Holland Parkside received its Development Permit in April to allow for a 19-storey rental residential tower, and 11-storey office building with ground level retail and a ‘market food hall’ at King George Blvd and 98 Ave. This first phase is part of a master plan for the site (approved in 2020) which will see 2 additional market residential towers developed on the western portion of the site in the future, subject to separate development permit applications. Construction of Phase 1 is expected to commence by Summer 2021.

Approved Projects Map

As of May 2021, there are 36 approved major projects in City Centre, consisting of 42 high-rises, and 24 low-rises.

Construction

No new projects began construction during the past month, however one project completed construction – 28-Storey Linea by Rize at 104 Ave & 133 St.

Active Construction Map

As of May 2021, there are 17 major projects under construction in City Centre, representing approximately 15 high-rises, and 8 low-rises.

28-Storey Linea by Rize now complete at 104 Ave & 133 St 20-Storey Veterans Village / Parc Centrale rising at City Parkway & 105A Ave Crane now installed for Townline’s 25-Storey ‘The Holland’ on Old Yale Rd 5-Storey Transitional Housing project ‘Rosewood’ rising above 137 St Street frontage upgrades underway in front of Camellia Seniors Housing on 132 St Birds Eye View of progress at University District by BlueSky Large canopy entrance along Fraser Highway at King George Hub New multi-use path along Fraser Highway as part of King George Hub Excavation underway for 23-Storey Centra on 101 Ave 44-Storey One Central rising in West Village