KITCHENER — Vive Developments received approval back in September 2022 for a comprehensive redevelopment plan for 1668 King Street East, Kitchener.
The approved proposal outlines an ambitious project featuring two interconnected towers set to redefine the landscape of the area.
Originally, the development was slated to feature 616 residential units. The approved development will now offer 658 one and two-bedroom residential units in two towers across the street from the Rockway Gardens.
The buildings, initially planned to be 22 and 23 storeys high, have been expanded with two additional floors added to each building during a meeting of the planning commission.
Notably, no additional parking will be provided to support the extra floors. The revised conceptual development envisions two towers linked by shared parking facilities and expansive outdoor amenity spaces.
With a total area of 605 square metres, these amenity spaces promise to enhance the residential experience.
Building A will soar to 25 storeys, with a segment rising to 14 storeys and another to 10 storeys. It will offer a mix of 343 residential units and 184.4 square metres of commercial/retail space at grade.
Meanwhile, Building B will stand at 24 storeys, providing 315 residential units. The approved project boasts 658 residential units, ranging from one to two bedrooms, catering to diverse housing needs.
Additionally, a total of 403 parking spaces are planned, with designated areas for both commercial and residential purposes.
Access to the site will be facilitated via King Street East and Weber Street East, ensuring convenient connectivity for residents and visitors alike. The parking infrastructure, comprising three levels, will be integrated within the buildings, minimizing its visual impact on the surroundings.
As part of the proposal, Vive Developments sought amendments to existing zoning regulations.
Notably, requests included adjustments to rear yard setbacks, floor space ratios, and parking provisions.
These changes aimed to optimize the site’s potential within the framework of municipal planning policies.
Furthermore, a zoning by-law amendment was approved to rezone the subject lands from High Intensity Mixed Use Zone (MU-3) to High Intensity Mixed Use Zone (MU-3) with special regulation provisions and a special use provision to accommodate the proposed development.
The specific provisions approved include:
1. To permit a rear yard setback from the Weber Street frontage at 9.4 metres, whereas 14.0 metres is required.
2. To permit a maximum Floor Space Ratio of 7.2 for the proposed building, whereas a maximum of 4.0 is permitted.
3. To permit parking at a rate of 0.639 per unit for all multiple dwelling units proposed on site.
The project’s strategic location within an Urban Corridor/Mixed Use Corridor aligns with the city’s vision for intensified development. By accommodating higher densities, the approved proposal contributes to the growth and vibrancy of the area while supporting transit-oriented living.
Furthermore, the development prioritizes sustainable transportation, with provisions for over 300 long-term secure bicycle spaces.
This emphasis on alternative modes of transit underscores the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community well-being.
In summary, Vive Developments’ approved development represents a significant step towards urban renewal in Kitchener.
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