500-foot Fraser Mills tower to rise; Coquitlam targets 2024 for new neighbourhood’s parks planning

The development permit on a 47-storey Fraser Mills tower is signed, sealed and set to be delivered.

Coquitlam council gave their final approval on Monday for a 462-unit, 509-foot tall tower at 73 Millside Street across the street from Ghuman Place. That approval clears the way for construction to begin on the Fraser Mills tower.

Located on 37 hectares east of Ikea and south of Maillardville, the Fraser Mills development is set to include 16 towers ranging from 29 to 49 storeys.

Given the position of prominence on the city’s waterfront, Coun. Brent Asmundson said he was hoping to see: “more iconic-looking towers.”

The building includes 267 market rental and 195 non-market units.

• Studio and one-bedroom units: 246
• Two-bedroom units: 164
• Three-bedroom units: 52

Located in the Fraser River flood plain, the ground floor slab is set to be 21 feet above sea level.

Responding to a question from Coun. Trish Mandewo, city staff said there were no concerns about water runoff from the site.

On Monday, council also approved a 109,000-square foot industrial warehouse between Lumber Alley and United Boulevard, just north Ghuman Place.

Featuring eight loading bays and 104 parking spots on a 4.32-acre site, the warehouse is expected to generate 110 jobs.

With the new neighbourhood starting to take shape, Coquitlam is set to kick off public engagement next year to help sketch in plans for parks, public art, and the planned 50,000-square foot community centre in Fraser Mills.

The consultation process might be a bit different than usual as there aren’t current residents to consult with, noted Coun. Matt Djonlic.

“I’m hoping we can really lean into asking residents: What would draw you to Fraser Mills?”

There’s an opportunity to create something unique for Coquitlam, Djonlic said.

The area should be vibrant. However, it might not eclipse the City of North Vancouver’s centrepiece just yet, according to Coun. Dennis Marsden.

“This isn’t the Shipyards,” Marsden said.

Marsden encouraged consultation with city staff and businesses in North Vancouver and New Westminster who can offer some insight into creating a community on the waterfront.

Beedie development is responsible for delivering those parks, public art and community centre but will be working with Coquitlam city staff, according to the city’s general manager of parks, recreation, culture and facilities. Lanny Englund.

Public engagement is expected to begin in January 2024 and to wrap up in April before staff return to council with a park concept design and community centre site fit.

Related: Coquitlam council approves 16-tower Fraser Mills development