For years, it operated as a distribution warehouse for grocery giant Safeway.
But after sitting empty since 2011, the Southgate property in Edmonds is poised to help revitalize the neighbourhood.
On Monday, three residential developments for the site were given the go-ahead by city council to move to a public hearing, scheduled for April 26.
One rezoning application for a portion of 7679 and 7701 18th St. is for a 32-storey apartment tower with a low-rise component fronting Southgate Boulevard, a new road.
The tower will have a total of 351 units, while the low-rise development will include 63 units.
A second development on a portion of 7201 11th Ave. is for a non-market low rise development with a total of 90 units.
The application is intended to be the first non-market development within the Southgate neighbourhood, and will replace the existing 90 units at the adjacent Cedar Place development located at 7121 14th Ave., according to a staff report.
The report noted the current Cedar Place site was developed in 1969 and the existing units are in need of replacement. Upon completion of the new development, current residents of Cedar Place will be provided the option to relocate to the new development, with the new housing being owned and operated by BC Housing.
A third development encompasses portions of 7201 11th Ave. and includes a single 30-storey apartment tower with a four-storey low-rise building fronting 18th Street.
The development will have 229 units in the tower and 53 units in the low-rise apartment.
Several councillors expressed their excitement for the projects coming forward after years of planning.
Coun. Paul McDonell said he moved into the neighbourhood 26 years ago, and has watched it slowly go “downhill.”
Specifically, he praised the 90 units of social housing on the site.
“I’m glad the developer was able to bring this one on to the site, … it will be the first step in the revitalization of that whole area down there,” McDonell said, suggesting when the development is done, it will be one of the best in the city.
Mayor Derek Corrigan said he believes the development will get the support of residents when it goes to a public hearing next month, adding it will improve the neighbourhood.
“I think the community’s been waiting with bated breath for this to happen,” he told the NOW.
The mayor also noted the plan for the social housing units allows people in Cedar Place to stay in their residence and then move into new housing when it’s complete.
