Chilliwack is seeing a wave of potential developments as several vacant lots across the city are poised for significant transformation. From high-density residential projects to mixed-use developments, these bare lands represent opportunities for growth and change in the community. Here’s a closer look at some of these sites, grouped by their intended future use.
45719, 45723 & 45731 Princess Ave
These fenced properties are set for development by Hollycrest Properties, focusing on residential rental units. Zoned Residential 3 - Low Rise Apartment, these lots are earmarked for low-rise apartment buildings, contributing to the city's affordable housing stock. The emphasis on quality service and tenant satisfaction highlights a commitment to creating comfortable living spaces within a growing urban area.
46197 & 46199 First Ave
Zoned as Residential 3 - Low Rise Apartment, the properties at 46197 and 46199 First Avenue offer a prime opportunity for redevelopment. According to Chilliwack’s 2040 Official Community Plan (OCP), these sites can accommodate up to four-storey buildings, supporting high-density living. The potential mix of housing options, including townhouses and low-rise apartments, aligns with the city's vision for inclusive and accessible residential growth.
9178 Williams St
This property, zoned for residential use, presents significant potential for developing diverse housing options. With the capacity for stacked townhouses or low-rise apartments, 9178 Williams Street is ideally situated near transit, making it a strategic location for higher-density projects. As Chilliwack's demand for affordable and inclusive housing grows, this site is well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to the community.
8392 Young Road
A prime commercial site, the 1.09-acre lot at 8392 Young Road is zoned CSM (Service Commercial Industrial), offering a wide range of development possibilities. From retail to light industrial, and vehicle-oriented businesses to recreational facilities, the site’s high visibility and flexible zoning make it an attractive option for various commercial ventures. The potential for diverse uses reflects the evolving needs of Chilliwack's commercial landscape.
45996 Yale Road
Formerly a gas station, the 0.42-acre property at 45996 Yale Road has remained vacant due to environmental concerns. However, with its CS1 zoning and Urban Quarter designation under the OCP, this site is poised for a significant mixed-use redevelopment. The potential for an 18-storey building blending commercial and residential spaces presents a unique opportunity to enhance downtown Chilliwack while addressing environmental remediation needs.
45860 Spadina Ave
The former home of the Chilliwack Progress newspaper, 45860 Yale Road, offers prime potential for a high-density mixed-use development. With its Urban Quarter designation, this site could support up to 18 storeys, blending commercial and residential spaces to create a vibrant urban environment. The development of this site could significantly contribute to the revitalization of downtown Chilliwack.
7164 Vedder Road
Former home of the Windsor Plywood, destroyed by fire in 2019. This property is zoned for commercial and industrial use and this property offers significant redevelopment potential. The future vision for this site suggests a shift towards a mixed-use project, with ground-floor commercial spaces and residential units above. This aligns with the goal of creating a pedestrian-friendly, vibrant streetscape that supports both local businesses and housing density.
The diverse zoning across these properties, from residential to commercial to mixed-use, highlights the city's strategic approach to urban development. CS1 zoning allows for a range of commercial activities, RES3 focuses on residential growth, and the Urban Quarter designation encourages high-density, mixed-use projects that blend living and working spaces. These developments are more than just new buildings; they represent Chilliwack's ongoing evolution as a vibrant, growing community.
As these projects progress from bare land to bustling hubs, they will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Chilliwack, offering new opportunities for residents and businesses alike.