The City of Victoria is inviting public feedback on a rezoning bylaw for a proposed six-storey mixed-use residential development on Broughton Street, designed without any parking spaces.
Scheduled for a first reading on Thursday, January 30, the bylaw seeks council approval for a project that includes 42 residential units but eliminates the required 25 parking spaces for residents and four for visitors. Developers, Fort Properties, have proposed a mid-block crosswalk to encourage a car-free lifestyle and align with the city’s walkability and bike-friendly infrastructure.
The variance also reduces the required yard setback for portions of the building above the first story from eight meters to seven meters. The proposal, which would replace an existing parking lot, has already received unanimous support from the committee of the whole in October.
Councillor Dave Thompson previously expressed strong support for the initiative, noting that 40% of downtown households in Victoria are already car-free. “This building is very walkable, bikable, and situated near Fort and upcoming Blanshard Street protected bike lanes, as well as frequent transit,” Thompson said.
Adjacent to the site, the YMCA property at 851 Broughton Street, owned by Concert Real Estate Corporation, is also slated for major redevelopment. Plans include a 26-storey tower and an 11-storey building offering 220 condominiums and 150 rental units, aiming to meet the city’s growing demand for diverse housing options.
Residents can share their thoughts on the Broughton Street project by emailing legislativeservices@victoria.ca, mailing submissions to Legislative Services at #1 Centennial Square, Victoria, B.C., V8W 1P6, or dropping them off at the city hall lobby.
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