Community Feedback - Core Design Themes for the Village Centre

Gateway Community Feedback

Core Design Themes for

 Lower Capilano - Grouse Inn/Imperial Oil Sites – Capilano Rd

Based on collective conversations Executive Board members have had with residents since the April DNV presentations, we have compiled the core themes and design elements that the CGA Board feels are broadly supported within the community.  In general these themes apply equally to all of the commercial properties designated for redevelopment, including Larco’s Capwest site, the Grouse Inn and Capilano Road properties. Under each theme, we have listed a number of design elements.

1. Open connections through to the surrounding neighbourhood.

• Walking access through the Pacific Gate site to Capwest site, transit and other community facilities.
• Connection across Curling Road in alignment with the “Larco's” Woonerf street.
• Pedestrian orientation of the Woonerf street. 

2. Human scaled streets

• Two storey streetwall at pedestrian level with set back for upper floors. 

3. Traffic management on Curling (we see the following as must haves)

• Installation of signalization of Curling tied to the Pacific Gate application and change of land use.
• Dedication of a 5.5 meter right-of-way along Capilano Road to provide for a dedicated left turn northbound lane from Capilano on to Curling.
• No street parking from Woonerf east to Capilano so that a dedicated right turn and left turn lanes can be provided.
• Passive traffic calming through streetscape design to lower auto speeds and ensure public safety.

4. Residential Focus with no major commercial center (and associated traffic volumes)

• Designation that emphasizes residential over commercial use
• Possible live/ work.
• Community-oriented retail.
• Possible medical/dental offices or professional offices.
• Residential use on ground level west of the Woonerf street and extension.

5. Accommodation for seniors and special care adults

• one example of accommodating special care adults is “My Own Space”
• appropriate housing to promote "aging in place" for seniors

6. Unstructured green space to accommodate increased local population

• Creation of seating areas central to the development so that residents can truly utilize the ground space. 

7.  Comments on development style

• Blend of concrete and wood rather than steel and glass.
• Pedestrian level street lighting along Curling and Fullerton