WATERLOO — 8185 Bridgeport Inc. has submitted an application to amend zoning regulations for the property located at 81 to 85 Bridgeport Road East.
The proposed development, subject to changes in the Official Plan and Zoning By-law, aims to transform the site into a multi-tower, mixed-use complex featuring residential units, commercial space, and ample parking facilities.
The envisioned development comprises three towers ranging from 16 to 22 storeys in height, including a shared podium with internal parking.
These towers will collectively house 494 residential units, totalling 692 bedrooms.
Additionally, 600 square metres of commercial space are proposed along the Bridgeport Road East frontage.
The project plans include 508 vehicular parking spaces and 306 bicycle parking spaces to accommodate residents and visitors.
The current site, which hosts a furniture store and a used car dealership, is set for demolition to pave the way for the new development. It spans approximately 0.987 hectares after road widening, boasting around 85 metres of frontage on Bridgeport Road East.
Situated near Uptown Waterloo and facing a bustling commercial plaza with various retail outlets, the location offers convenient access to amenities and transportation.
Transportation options in the vicinity include Grand River Transit routes such as Route 5 – Erb and Route 8 – Weber, along with proximity to the ION station at the Public Square.
The proposal includes left-in and left-out access points from two driveways on Bridgeport Road East, enhancing traffic flow along the one-way road. Key features of the development include a six-storey podium serving as a base for the towers, commercial space on the ground floor, and a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom units.
Each residential unit will boast a private balcony for amenity space, while communal outdoor areas will be available atop the podium.
Parking facilities will be integrated into the podium structure, with screening along the Bridgeport Road East frontage.
In terms of the proposal, the development seeks an Official Plan and Zoning amendment to permit the proposed development.
The proposed Official Plan and Zoning amendments for the development at 81 to 85 Bridgeport Road East entail several key changes aimed at accommodating the multi-tower, mixed-use project while adhering to regulatory standards and community needs.
The proposed Official Plan amendment seeks to re-designate the subject lands from their current designation of ‘Medium High Density, 40 metres’ to ‘High Density, 81 metres’ on Schedule B1.
The new land designation would permit a maximum height of 81 metres and a maximum density of 750 bedrooms per hectare.
It aligns with the project’s vision of constructing three buildings within the High Density designation, ensuring compliance with permitted building heights and densities outlined in the city’s planning guidelines.
Notably, the proposed development does not entail any changes in land use or an increase in density beyond the permitted 750 bedrooms per hectare.
The proposed Zoning By-law amendment encompasses several modifications to accommodate the development’s specific requirements.
Proposed key changes include:
● Permitting a maximum horizontal tower dimension for Tower B of 51 metres, ensuring compatibility with the project’s architectural design and layout.
● Permitting 0.9 residential parking spaces per unit, reflecting the parking needs associated with the proposed residential units.
● Permitting 2.4 non-residential parking spaces per 100 square metres of building floor area, aligning with the commercial space proposed within the development.
These amendments aim to address parking demands while maintaining a balance between residential and non-residential parking requirements.
In summary, the proposed Official Plan and Zoning amendments are tailored to facilitate the realization of the multi-tower, mixed-use development at 81 to 85 Bridgeport Road East.
By accommodating changes in building heights, densities, and parking provisions, these amendments seek to ensure the project’s compliance with city regulations while contributing to the city’s urban growth objectives.
Moreover, the project aligns with the city’s growth plans, situated within a Major Node designated for accommodating increased urban development.
The application was under review by city planners and relevant authorities, including the City Council.
However, it’s worth noting that the applicant has appealed to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) for approval.
Pending approval from the OLT, the development offers to contribute to the city’s urban landscape, providing modern living spaces and commercial opportunities while adhering to regulatory standards and community needs.
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