New 40-storey highrise tower proposal part of ‘gateway’ to downtown Kelowna

A 40-storey tower proposed for downtown Kelowna is the start of the redevelopment of the old McDonald’s restaurant and Husky Gas station sites across Harvey Avenue from each other near the Bennett Bridge

“The site is envisioned to become a highly visible gateway to the heart of Kelowna’s city centre,” states a rezoning application filed with the City of Kelowna by Ridge North America.

It calls for 327 long-term rental units in the 40-storey tower on the 1.6 acres in the northern, first phase of the development, to be called Bridgewater.

On the second, southern phase, there are another 70 housing units proposed in a six-storey building.

The northern tower will also have 25,800 square metres of commercial space.

“Bridgewater is a two-phase development on the north-east and south-west corner of Harvey Avenue (Highway 97) and Pandosy/Water street,” the application says.

“The proposed mixed commercial and residential development is designed to transition from the southern residential neighbourhood into the vibrant downtown core to the north. Secured purpose-built rental housing will promote a diverse mix of household types and ensure an inclusive community for years to come.”

The tower will be next to the three Water Street by the Park towers, one of which will be 42 storeys. Two of those towers are now under construction.

The city put the former McDonald’s and Husky Gas properties up for sale in August 2021 with an asking price of $11.275 million. The city did not confirm if the land had been sold or for how much at publication time.

This shows the two northern properties where the tower is proposed. | Credit: Submitted/City of Kelowna

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