As we move through 2024, the City of Chilliwack continues to witness robust growth and development, as evidenced by the latest building permit report for July 2024. This month saw a significant array of construction activities across various sectors, contributing to the city’s ongoing expansion and economic vitality.
July 2024 marked a solid month for residential construction in Chilliwack. The city issued 37 residential permits, totaling 31 units with a combined value of over $10.7 million. Notably, single-family dwellings remained the most active segment, with 17 permits issued, translating into 27 new units valued at $9.4 million. The Eastern Hillside and Sardis neighbourhoods saw considerable activity, contributing substantially to the city's residential landscape.
Although there were no new permits issued for townhouses or duplexes, the secondary suites and TADs sector added two units with a value of $87,200. The absence of multi-family residential permits this month is noteworthy, especially given the city’s ongoing efforts to promote higher-density living in specific areas.
The commercial sector in Chilliwack showed a balanced performance, with 12 permits issued, including one for a new commercial building valued at $35,000. Miscellaneous commercial activities, which include additions and improvements, contributed an additional $1.57 million, reflecting continued investment in the city's retail and service sectors. Noteworthy commercial projects included a Sephora retail build-out at Luckakuck Way valued at $990,000, signaling the city's growing appeal to prominent retail brands.
On the industrial front, July 2024 saw a relatively slow month with only one permit issued for miscellaneous industrial activities, valued at $25,000. While the year-to-date figures for 2024 show a total permit value of $7,710,000, which is substantial, it falls short when compared to the same period in 2023, where the total was $33,257,000.
Agriculture, a cornerstone of Chilliwack’s economy, continued to receive attention with five permits issued, covering an area of 5,289 m² and valued at $1.99 million. This included notable projects such as a $1 million poultry barn on Kitchen Road, reinforcing the importance of agricultural infrastructure in the region.
Institutional development was quieter in July, with no new permits issued. However, the city has seen significant institutional investments earlier in 2024, which are likely to continue impacting the community in the long term.
The Chilliwack Proper neighbourhood saw the highest activity with 13 permits, accounting for 11 units valued at $2.59 million. This area, along with Sardis, which added six units valued at $2.72 million, continues to lead residential growth in the city.
Other areas like Eastern Hillside and Valley North also contributed significantly, with permits valued at $2.56 million and $2.36 million, respectively. These neighbourhoods are emerging as key growth zones, attracting both new residents and developers.
Overall, July 2024 was a month of measured but steady growth for the City of Chilliwack. With a total of 62 permits issued and a construction value exceeding $14.3 million, the city continues to build on its strong foundation across residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural sectors. As Chilliwack moves forward, these developments will play a crucial role in shaping the city’s future, ensuring it remains a vibrant and attractive place to live, work, and invest.
