Major residential development proposed for 62nd Ave

PONOKA -- Ponoka is exploring plans to rezone a parcel of land on 62 Avenue to allow for a major residential development.

The plans will be the subject of a public hearing held on Wednesday, Aug. 12, and if approved, will pave the way for two new four-storey apartment buildings to be constructed at 5000 62 Ave. The land is located in an area surrounded mostly by single-family homes as well as the Ponoka Christian School to the north. In their report, Ponoka staff note that the new development would help the municipality increase housing options for residents while also supporting residents of various income levels. 

However, not everyone is excited about the prospect of a major residential development being constructed in this location. Some residents have expressed concerns relating to the proposed project's proximity to the school, potential devaluing of adjacent properties, traffic congestion, loss of the existing natural area, the overall scale of the project, among others.

The proposal for the two new apartment buildings includes plans for shared indoor and outdoor amenity spaces. Administration also add that the new development would align with the section of their strategic plan which cites the need to "enhance opportunities for attainable and accessible housing". It's also stated that the development would "indirectly contribute" to the Town of Ponoka's ability to retain and attract businesses with a labour force looking at housing options.

Historically, the Town of Ponoka says they've used the site for operational purposes and storage, but the parcel has remained vacant and identified as Urban Reserve to accommodate future urban development. The proposed development would complete 62 Avenue and bisect the property, establishing a new access point to 50 Street. The proposal includes the construction of a new lane segment in the northwest corner, extending from 62 Avenue to the existing lane to the north. 

Ponoka residents looking to have their say on the proposed residential development can attend the public hearing on Aug. 12 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at the Ponoka Civic Centre. Following the hearing, Council will vote whether to approve or defeat a motion to allow the plans to move ahead.