Sunset Ridge Stage 3
Council gave the green light to the final stage of Sunset Ridge on Monday night, paving the way for a long-awaited second access into the largest community in Cochrane.
It also paves the way for eventual build out for more than 1,800 residents – which is why Coun. Morgan Nagel gave pause and voted no to the development, sticking to his guns that he won't support any further development in Cochrane at this time.
Mayor Jeff Genung and Coun. Tara McFadden both emphasized the importance of getting a second access for the community, with Genung noting that he hears about this need from the community almost every day.
The Cochrane Eagle confirmed with Melcor, the Sunset Ridge developer, that while no timelines can be nailed down yet – as development is always market-dependent – the second access and any development in Stage 3 (the first phase being Phase 23) would likely be a few years away, possibly longer.
While Melcor is not building any phases this year due to the slow market conditions, the company confirmed it must finish building the final three phases in Stage 2 prior to commencement of Stage 3.
The land use approval now allows for Melcor to begin community planning, estimated at six phases.
The Neighbourhood Plan includes 61 per cent of homes to be single detached; close to 29 per cent semi-detached; and 10 per cent townhomes.
Public service zoning includes a two-acre dog park, the finalization of a central green spine and northern park.
Phase 23 is the first phase and includes the dog park and the second access, as well as some residential development.
No Car Wash
Council unanimously voted against a land use amendment to allow for a car wash next to the Lube City along Railway Street, coinciding with administration's recommendation to refuse.
Coun. Alex Reed moved the motion to strike, based on "grave concerns" relative to traffic flow and congestion that would result at that location, with respect to the other businesses on the premises. Nagel was in agreement with Reed's reasons.
McFadden added that "this needs to be a pedestrian-focused area, not a vehicle-focused area."
Public Hearings
Back-lit signs will be brought to the next council session, as a public hearing has been set for March 25 in chambers.
Administration is proposing to amend the land use bylaw to allow for back-lit signage in five commercial and industrial districts in town – not including Historic Downtown – based on a growing ask from the business community.
A public hearing for the re-designation of Rivercrest has also been scheduled for March 25. This is a housekeeping matter looking to match minor changes made to the area during the detailed design stages of the subdivision process.
Bridge Borrowing
Council unanimously approved the next phase of the Bow River bridge project Monday night, approved the budgeted $12.323 million for the south arterial road bridge construction, with $9 million to be funded from debt and the balance from grants.
Council passed the borrowing bylaw this week to allow for this. The interest rate will be finalized at the time of borrowing later this year.
