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Developers outline condominium proposal in Prince Rupert

The fate of a condominium development on Graham Ave. could be decided later this month as council holds a public hearing on the development.
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A rendering of the condominium complex proposed for Graham Ave.

The fate of a new condominium development on Graham Ave. could be decided later this month as council holds a public hearing on the rezoning of the site.

Prince Rupert Living Concepts is proposing to construct a three-storey condominium at the very end of Graham Ave that will include five two-bedroom units, six one-bedroom units and 13 covered parking stalls. Dubbing it an "aging in place design", project manager Kevin Newton told Prince Rupert council the new housing would be for a targeted audience.

"This is for people like myself who have a handicap or a mobile disability. This came about because of my desire to be somewhere more conducive to my disability," he said, noting it is also being designed with seniors who don't want to live in a house or a home for the elderly.

"People want to retire somewhere nicer than living in a home. I have nothing negative to say about Acropolis Manor, but that's not what a lot of people are looking for ... these are high-end units developed for well-heeled users. It is for senior people who live in this town who want to stay in this town."

Newton said he expects it will take nearly a year to get all of the permitting and engineering work done, which would put the start of construction in the summer of 2015.

While council set a public hearing on the rezoning for March 24, some councillors expressed their strong support for the project.

"It is something we have talked about as a need in town. As people age they want to stay in town but they don't want to live in a house. I think this is something we need," said Coun. Anna Ashley.

"I think this is an excellent idea ... I think we need to look at something like this not just for seniors but for young families," added Coun. Joy Thorkelson, noting the influx of workers expected with major energy projects proposed for the region.