CAMBRIDGE — In response to the increasing need for affordable housing, the Cambridge City Council has reviewed proposed development concepts for four city-owned properties.
These properties—located at 10 Ethel Street, 1580 Queenston Road, 25 Chalmers Street South, and 0 Grand Ridge Drive—are under consideration for residential developments to provide affordable rental housing options to Cambridge residents.
At 10 Ethel Street, the development concept proposes 14 stacked townhouse units within a four-storey building. This plan includes an increase in permitted density from 40 units per hectare to 76 units per hectare, which would require an Official Plan Amendment.
The parking ratio for this project has also been modified, proposing one space per unit instead of the required 18 spaces.
Additionally, the design includes landscaping and ample separation distances to reduce the impact on surrounding properties.
The current zoning for 10 Ethel Street is R4, which permits single detached dwellings, meaning that the proposed development would require rezoning for higher density.
The property at 1580 Queenston Road, which is the former Preston Scout House, is proposed to be developed into a three-storey walk-up apartment building that would provide 24 residential units.
The development proposes to increase the density to 89 units per hectare, necessitating both an Official Plan and a Zoning By-law Amendment.
The parking plan includes one space per unit. However, the reduction in outdoor amenity space may be offset by the site’s proximity to a public park.
Due to the heritage designation of the existing structure, the design is planned to complement the historical features of the building.
A detailed Heritage Impact Assessment will further determine appropriate design elements to ensure compatibility.
Currently, the site is zoned as N1 (Institutional), though surrounding properties fall under RM3 zoning.
The former St. Ambrose School property, located at 25 Chalmers Street South, presents an opportunity for high-density residential development with up to 360 residential units across three buildings.
The proposed density of 315 units per hectare would require amendments to both the Official Plan and Zoning By-law.
The parking ratio in this high-density concept is proposed to be 1.14 spaces per unit, which is below standard requirements.
The site is well-positioned to support transit-accessible affordable housing as it is situated near public transit routes and commercial services.
The current zoning for 25 Chalmers Street South is N1R4, which includes institutional and residential designations.
At 0 Grand Ridge Drive, the development concept includes a 50-unit, four-storey walk-up apartment building. This proposal suggests a density increase to 116 units per hectare, requiring changes to the Official Plan and Zoning By-law.
The parking plan includes one space per unit, along with additional visitor parking. The layout integrates parking spaces into the site to reduce impact on adjacent residential areas.
The site’s current zoning is R5, which permits single detached residences, and a portion of the property is designated as Open Space (OS1).
Cambridge City Council aims to initiate official applications to amend zoning and the Official Plan for these sites to maximize affordable housing opportunities.
This initiative aligns with Cambridge’s commitment to providing sustainable, accessible housing options for its residents.
Detailed assessments, including public consultations, Heritage Impact Studies, and environmental reviews, will guide final decisions and ensure the developments meet community needs.
A statutory public meeting is being held on November 12, 2024, in regards to this project.
To read more articles on this specific development, click here.
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