New project would cover old parking lot

Developer wants to build an 8-storey mixed-use development with 32 apartments made using modules from Moduline Homes

An eight-storey “landmark project” proposed to go up on what is currently a parking lot in downtown Penticton goes before city council today for approval. The mixed-use development is planned to cover six vacant lots behind Guerard’s Fine Furniture on Backyard Boulevard, according to a letter submitted to the city by Norman Goddard Architecture on behalf of the unnamed developer.

Thirty-two parking stalls and retail space would be provided on the main level, with more retail and offices on the second and third floors. The top five storeys would boast a total of 32 apartments.

“The residential homes are to be constructed using a sophisticated prefabrication technique where the modules that comprise each apartment are manufactured at Moduline Homes in Penticton and then trucked and craned into place,” the architectural firm’s letter explains.

“It is our intention that this development will simultaneously be a landmark project for modular mid-rise construction, augment the street quality of Backstreet Boulevard and enhance the energy of downtown Penticton.”

The project requires a development permit from the city. Staff is recommending council vote in favour.

“The overall design and appearance of the building is of high quality and will certainly add to Penticton as a whole,” senior planner Audrey Tanguay wrote in her report to council.

“Staff considers that the project represents good urban planning principles and is in line with the vision and intent” of the Official Community Plan.

Council is also expected today to approve the installation of three launch sites on the Okanagan Lake waterfront for non-motorized-boats like paddleboards and kayaks.

The sites would be located on Marina Way Beach west of the rock groin, west of the Martin Street parking lot near Pier Water Sports, and on the west side of the SS Sicamous.

Today’s meetings begin at 1 p.m. with a committee of the whole, which will hear presentations on changes to the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen solid waste plan and the Penticton Creek restoration master plan.

Council will reconvene at 6 p.m. for public hearings for two projects: construction of 15 units of social housing at 180 Industrial Ave. W. and a 24-unit townhouse development on the 300 block of Eckhardt Ave. E.