CAMBRIDGE — The Regional Municipality of Waterloo is taking proactive steps to combat the pressing issue of affordable housing with a groundbreaking redevelopment proposal at 581 – 595 Langs Drive, Cambridge.
Led by the municipality, the project aims to revitalize the area while addressing the critical shortage of affordable rental units.
The ambitious plan centers around a 7-storey mixed-use building, encompassing 136 dwelling units and a ground-floor Youth Community Centre.
The municipality’s commitment to affordability is evident in its allocation strategy, with one-third of the units designated for rent-geared-to-income tenants, another third set below-average market rates, and the final third aimed at the lower end of the market rent spectrum.
The comprehensive approach ensures that the development caters to individuals and families from diverse economic backgrounds.
Unit diversity extends beyond affordability, offering layouts ranging from one-bedroom to five-bedroom configurations.
The flexibility ensures that households of varying sizes and compositions can find suitable accommodation within the development.
Positioned strategically at the southwest corner along Langs Drive, the proposed Youth Community Centre promises to be a vibrant hub of activity for the region’s youth.
Boasting an expanded space of 183.28 square metres, the center will offer various programs and activities tailored to the community’s needs.
Additionally, a 33.31 square metre office space within the complex will facilitate the smooth operation of day-to-day activities related to the affordable housing initiative.
Architecturally, the development embraces a thoughtful design approach, with an L-shaped layout that enhances street animation along Langs Drive.
Scaling up to 7-storeys at the front and tapering to 5-storeys towards the rear, the structure seamlessly integrates with the surrounding residential fabric.
Extensive outdoor amenity space, including a playground, coloured asphalt play area, and communal gathering spots, enriches the project’s community-centric ethos.
Indoor amenities on the ground floor include a multi-purpose room, meeting space, and a community area overlooking the outdoor amenities.
The spaces are meticulously planned to foster social interaction and community among residents.
Parking and accessibility are vital considerations in the proposal, with 142 parking spaces planned, including provisions for visitors and barrier-free parking.
Additionally, 60 bicycle parking spaces are integrated into the design to promote active transportation.
The project requires significant planning approvals to bring the vision to life. An Official Plan Amendment is sought to accommodate the proposed density, transitioning from ‘Low/Medium Density Residential’ to ‘High Density Residential.’
Similarly, a Zoning By-Law Amendment is necessary, seeking rezoning from ‘RM4’ to ‘N1RM3 with Site-Specific Exceptions.’
The exceptions include setbacks, parking ratios, and density adjustments to align with the project’s scope and intent.
The Regional Municipality of Waterloo’s proposed redevelopment addresses the acute need for affordable housing and embodies a commitment to community engagement and inclusivity.
As the project progresses through the planning process, it stands poised to transform the landscape while fostering a vibrant and cohesive neighbourhood for current and future residents.
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