The future of the Uptown-Douglas area is looking bright, with planning underway since 2015 soon bearing fruit.
Objectives outlined in a multi-year planning process are set to move forward to an upcoming public hearing following unanimous approval at Saanich’s special council meeting Monday (Jan. 17).
“When it’s fully built out in 20 to 30 years it will be a significant community centre with increased transit improvements, employment opportunities, and it will accommodate rising populations by building up,” Mayor Fred Haynes said in an interview. “It will be a real commercial, retail and economic hub for Saanich.”
Components of the plan outlined in a report from the Uptown-Douglas Plan Advisory Committee include improvements for pedestrians and cyclists, a mix of compact and multi-unit housing, transit upgrades and increased economic opportunities.
Upgrades will occur along Douglas Street from Tolmie Avenue to Huxley Street – including around the Uptown shopping centre, Saanich Plaza, municipal hall and the police and fire stations.
The Uptown-Douglas Plan was endorsed by council in August 2020 with the purpose of acknowledging and preparing for the maximizing of housing, transportation, economic and other potential in the area.
The public will have a chance to weigh in at the upcoming public hearing in a couple of weeks, with the date yet to be determined. To read more on the detailed project visit saanich.ca.
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