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Let's see other options for Riverbank Landing

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On Sept. 10, more than 150 Oakmont and Erin Ridge residents attended a public information meeting to see plans for a proposed commercial/residential mixed-use development, which includes two high-rise towers. I think it’s safe to say that most of the people at the meeting overwhelmingly opposed the development.

Boudreau Communities, the developer, plans to submit a formal application to the city in October to amend the area structure plan (ASP) and land use bylaw (LUB), and hopes to start construction in 2020. These timelines seem far too aggressive, especially since it is not known whether a market demand analysis has been conducted to support such a development. There are way too many significant issues to rush through the process. Traffic and pedestrian safety, density, privacy, decreased property values, shading, views, noise, construction disruptions, building heights and separation distance between the towers and adjacent residential properties were all issues raised by the audience at the information meeting. Most people felt that a development of this scope and nature is better suited elsewhere; high-rise towers simply do not fit in or complement the surrounding residential communities.

However, Mr. Haut, representing Boudreau Communities, said at the meeting that he thinks two tall towers is the “best way to develop” the properties. Of course he would – that idea would provide the greatest return of investment. But, based on the reaction at the information meeting, it didn’t sound like most residents from Oakmont and Erin Ridge agreed with him.  Mr. Haut was also quoted as saying “We do have a choice ...”, and that they are “willing to look at adjustments”, which may include moving one of the towers or reducing the height. 

Well, if there are other options, let’s see them. According to the city’s public consultation policy, a second public information meeting may be held after the developer has submitted an application to amend the ASP and LUB. The second public meeting is not mandatory, but in this case it should be. Let the residents of Oakmont and Erin Ridge see what other options there are, and until all the options for development are presented to and fairly reviewed by the public, the application to amend the ASP and LUB is premature and should be denied.

The solutions to mitigate traffic volume at the Bellerose Drive/Boudreau Road and Bellerose Drive/Evergreen Drive intersections brought forward at the meeting appeared to be band-aid in nature, but realistically that’s probably the best that can be done there. Installing vehicle monitoring systems and extending signal light times may help ease congestion a bit, but how much over time, especially in the winter, is up for debate. Traffic volumes, current and projected, were not shared with the audience at the information meeting, nor was it explained where traffic would go for vehicles turning right at the new access point.

Anyone who has concerns about the project can email or text Mayor Heron and council members and let them know. As well, some residents from Oakmont have set up a Facebook page (Oakmont Boudreau Development - Concerned Residents) to share views and exchange information about the proposed development. Residents who want to be on a contact list can email the Oakmont residents at [email protected], or they can be reached by phone or text at 780-700-5153.

Jerry Husar, St. Albert

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