KIM BURTON-SCHRAM
Local journalism initiative reporter
A planned 27-apartment building in Alexandria, on Kincardine Avenue between Dominion and Bishop Streets, has some future neighbours worried.
At a recent North Glengarry Township council meeting, an amendment was brought forward to change the zoning from institutional to residential, to reduce the parking requirement from 1.5 spaces per unit to one per apartment, and reduce setbacks from property lines.
The open lot previously housed a Christian faith mission and before that, a small school.
The older buildings have been demolished, and the lot is ready for new construction.
The 600-square-foot units will be one-bedroom, each with its own parking spot. There will be three rows of nine apartments, with two of the rows backing onto each other. Five will be wheelchair accessible.
The developers, Ron and Nadine Theoret, recently completed a project on Bishop Street where a derelict, abandoned building stood for over 20 years. Now, the eyesore is gone and that prime space is home to a six-unit apartment building.
Neighbours are worried about congestion
With the Kincardine Avenue proposal, however, some nearby residents say the many amendments prove the densification of the lot is too heavy.
They also worry tenants will be forced to park on the streets, adding to traffic congestion on already busy roads with limited space for parking.
Councillor Jacques Massie suggested a revised design with fewer units and more room to breathe.
Other councillors acknowledged that the design for 27 units maximizes the space available, but that the need for affordable housing in Alexandria is critical.
Further, there is limited space to develop this style of apartment building where tenants have parking at their doorstep.
Councillor Gary Martin said this development is needed and that he is approached by people who are hoping to find homes closer to the amenities that Alexandria has to offer.
Jacob Rheaume, Director of Building, By-Law and Planning for the Township, said the plan was not final, and that adjustments could be made.
Councillor Michael Madden pointed out that some of the older, single-family dwellings in Alexandria do not meet setback bylaws, with certain houses positioned approximately five feet from the sidewalk.
Deputy Mayor Carma Williams suggested there must be compromise to reach the goal of providing affordable, accessible housing for residents to help Alexandria continue to grow and thrive as a community.
Council and staff will continue to meet with the developers to consider options.
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