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Morguard Investments has submitted and publicized the rezoning application for their sweeping makeover of Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre, which would see the car-dominated space converted into a mixed-use, pedestrian-friendly district. A gallery of watercolour renderings illustrate the guiding principles and design narrative of the site described in the 115-page submission, allowing residents to familiarize themselves with the proposal before an upcoming public consultation.
Morguard envisions a five-district plan for the property, which would be serviced by a new street network, including an extension of 84 Avenue NW through the site. The Commercial District would replace surface parking bordering 83rd Street with an animated strip of retail and open space. Immediately to the west, occupying the central portion of the property, would be a Boutique District and Central Park. This area would be pedestrian-oriented and designed at a human scale, with retail and a programmed park space offering a "unique ambiance."
The western edge of the site, also currently occupied by a desert of surface parking, would give way to a Garden District with an abundance of residences and supportive mixed uses. A community garden with water features is also planned for this component. To the north, a Health and Wellness District focuses primarily on institutional land uses as a complement to the adjacent Edmonton Public Library, Bonnie Doon Health Centre and Dermott District Park. Finally, a Retail and Entertainment District defines the southernmost block at Whyte Avenue, where Morguard would erect a transit plaza and an enclosed retail centre featuring a food hall and entertainment space.
In terms of built form, Morguard is seeking between 25 and 40 storeys on the eastern side of the site and between eight and 20 storeys on the west side, with a minimum dwelling density of 225 units per hectare. Up to 6,000 units and 93,000 square metres of commercial space be introduced to the site when all is said and done.
Development officials will be on hand at the open house Wednesday, May 16 from 5 to 8 PM at La Cité Francophone, 8627 91 Street NW to answer questions and address any concerns about the proposal.
Additional images and information can be found in the Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion or share your photos? Check out the associated Forum thread or leave a comment in the field provided at the bottom of this page.
