A supportive and complex care housing project is being proposed for Kelowna's central city area.
The five-storey building is planned for 1144 Pacific Avenue near Gordon Drive. The development would provide 20 supportive housing units, and 20 complex care units, as well as on-site support services for residents facing significant mental health and addiction challenges.
The project is a partnership between BC Housing, the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions, and Interior Health.
The ground floor will offer services and amenities, while floors two through five will house the residents. The design includes outdoor space, staff and visitor parking, secure bicycle storage, and a dog run for residents with pets.
The proposed development is seeking several variances, including reducing the required front setback from three metres to zero, and cutting the number of parking spaces from 32 to seven. This total is based on the number of residents, staff, and expected visitors.
The application states that the buildingÎÚÑ»´«Ã½™s design is shaped by space constraints and the needs of residents and staff. Most residents are not expected to drive due to the level of care they require. With the site located near public transit and key services, available parking is being prioritized for staff and visitors.
A request is also being made to allow more small car stalls than currently permitted under city bylaws.
The project still requires consideration and approval by city council.