A proposed 40-unit townhouse development at a busy stretch in North Delta has moved closer to reality.
Following a public hearing on May 30th, council granted preliminary approval to an application by Highmark Homes to construct the high-density development at the corner of 72nd Avenue and 116th Street. The applicant needs to satisfy a few final requirements from the planning department before it comes back to council for final approval.
The development site is comprised of eight lots located on the south side of 72 Avenue, west of the intersection of 72 Avenue and 116 Street.
The proposal is for 40 three-bedroom units in seven buildings.
The townhomes will have a mix of tandem and double car garage units. Units facing 72 Avenue will have two entrance doors, one on 72 Avenue and the other access will be from the internal driveway lane.
Delta staff acknowledged current traffic operations at 72nd Avenue and 116th Street during the peak hours experience significant capacity issues and considerable vehicle queuing. These pressures are
mainly due to relatively high volume traffic westbound in the morning peak and eastbound in the afternoon on 72nd Avenue passing through the intersection. The south leg on 116th Street showed fairly low volumes with 75 to 100 trips in the peak hour.
A public amenity is to be located at the corner of 116 Street and 72 Avenue, to be furnished with benches against the backdrop of existing pine trees and some new trees.
Several residents at the hearing expressed opposition, citing various concerns including traffic.
It was noted during the hearing that a 60-unit townhouse development could be allowed under the density provisions of the current designation for the site, but 40 units were proposed.
