A proposed mixed-use development across from the downtown Barrie public library turned another page Monday night.
Without speaking to the motion, councillors gave initial approval during a general committee at city hall. It will be considered for final approval at next week’s council meeting.
The project would be situated along McDonald, Owen and Worsley streets.
The developer wants to build a mid- to highrise building which would include 20 storeys of mixed use on the southern portion. It would be ground-level retail along Worsley and Owen.
The northern portion would include an eight-storey building with eight townhouses as well as a three-level podium base along McDonald and Owen.
The two principal buildings would be connected by a nine-storey mid-rise structure.
The application has been submitted by MacNaughton Hermsen Briton Clarkson (MHBC) Planning Ltd., on behalf of Barrie Owen Service Inc., to rezone the properties with special provisions, including reducing the side-yard setback from 9.13 metres to three metres, and lessening the landscape buffer area.
The developer would provide $475,000 to Downtown Public Library work, including $150,000 for safety at the plaza in front of the downtown branch as well as other beautification measures in the area, such as nearby parks and new street furnishings (garbage cans, etc.).
Residential density has not been determined for the project, if approved. The minimum would include a 289-unit condominium building, while the maximum could be a 329-unit multi-rental building.
According to a city staff report, the additional 40 units would be gained by converting some parking spaces in the podium building.
The city would still have to approve a site-plan application before the development can move ahead.
