A new seniors assisted living facility is being proposed in Cranbrook as the city took first steps to approving the project at a council meeting on Monday.
Mayor and councillors approved an Official Community Plan (OCP) to allow property at 620 and 616 Kootenay St. to be considered for rezoning that would allow Golden Life to build a new residential facility with a wide range of housing options.
"We definitely need it here in Cranbrook, there's a lack of seniors housing and affordable housing and demographically, it's becoming more of a need," said Mayor Lee Pratt.
"We're also finding that people are moving into the community now in that demographic age and it will serve some of that, too."
The project will be a campus-style development offering independent living, assisted living and residential care that would enable seniors to access a wide variety of services, according to a letter from the company that was sent to city staff and council.
In terms of the building itself, Golden Life has chosen to create different build heights to max out at four storeys because of close proximity to existing residential homes. Currently, Golden Life hasn't released any information on how many units or types of units will be constructed.
The plan includes two secure courtyards, several walking paths, ample large trees and landscaping. There will be two vehicle access points from Kootenay St. with parking along the same street and also underground.
The existing 2.23-acre property, which used to serve as a mobile home park, is currently vacant except for two single-family dwellings and is surrounded by a range of uses that include commercial, public utility (Shaw Cable) and a mix of residential.
“Golden Life exists to support seniors to live their best life and we are excited for the opportunity to expand this mission in our home town of Cranbrook," said Celeste Mullin, the Vice President Corporate Business with Golden Life. "This year we will be developing a second seniors housing Village that will complement our existing site and continue to create meaningful experiences through exceptional housing, hospitality, and care.
"In addition to the development, we are focusing our efforts on building select programs and services that will be available to seniors living in the larger community. This dual focus will enable us to support more seniors and build upon the family values that we were founded upon.”
Golden Life currently owns and operates the Joseph Creek Village which provides in depended and assisted living housing for seniors.