Revised development proposal for downtown Kamloops returns for community engagement

A high rise downtown apartment complex is back on the table from Kelson Group.

The massive development proposal, called City Gardens, is being reintroduced for public feedback after making changes to the initial proposal from last year, according to a recent press release.

Kelson Group's apartment development on the 400-block of Nicola Street has grown from its September 2020 proposal of 435 suites to 500 in the revised plan.

"The revised plan reflects some of the community's concerns about parking and traffic flow, and the plans have been modified so that Nicola Street remains open," Kelson Group said in the release.

If the proposal goes ahead as planned, the two towers will have 18 and 22 floors, respectively, with condos for sale. Low rise buildings will have apartments for rent.

"We aspire to enhance the great culture of our downtown core and help fill a need for housing for people who work at the hospital and offices downtown," Jason Fawcett, President of Kelson Group, said in a statement.

The Kelson Group website says the buildings will be pet friendly. It will also have retail space for coffee shops and restaurants.

Before the development will be taken to city officials for approval, the group is reaching out to the public for feedback and suggestions.

There is a survey open on their website where people can provide feedback on the revised proposal. Kelson Group will also be hosting a virtual information session on March 29 at 5 p.m.

More information on the survey and the proposal can be found at the Kelson Group website here.

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