7164 Vedder Road

The property at 7164 Vedder Road, previously home to businesses like Windsor Plywood, presents significant redevelopment potential. Currently zoned as CSM (Service Commercial Industrial), the property supports a variety of uses such as general commercial, light manufacturing, vehicle-oriented commercial, and even warehousing. However, the future vision, according to the Official Community Plan (OCP), designates the site as a mix of 72% Apartment/Townhouse (street-facing) and 28% Ground Floor Commercial. This suggests a potential shift toward a more residential-focused development with some commercial elements at street level.

Potential Redevelopment

Given its size (1.06 acres), the property could be redeveloped into a mixed-use project, aligning with the OCP's vision for the area. A potential three-story structure could be envisioned, featuring ground-floor commercial units to maintain street activity and engagement, with residential units above. This aligns with the goal of creating a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly streetscape, while also increasing housing density in a transitioning urban area.

Opportunities

• Mixed-Use Development: The site's large size allows for substantial commercial space on the ground floor with apartments or townhouses above. This supports both local businesses and residential growth.
• Enhanced Connectivity: Located on Vedder Road, a major north-south corridor, the site benefits from high visibility and accessibility, making it ideal for retail or service-oriented businesses.
• Community Integration: The site could serve as a focal point for the neighborhood, potentially including amenities like green spaces or public plazas to foster community interaction.

Constraints

• Zoning Transition: The shift from a service commercial industrial zone to a more residential-focused development would require careful planning to meet both the current zoning regulations and future OCP goals.
• Traffic Impact: Increased density could lead to higher traffic volumes on Vedder Road, necessitating traffic management solutions, especially given the already identified concerns about congestion in the area.

Overall, 7164 Vedder Road has the potential to become a cornerstone of the area's redevelopment, balancing commercial vibrancy with residential growth, all while contributing to the evolving urban landscape of Chilliwack.