The Visionary Redevelopment of Burtch & Harvey

Kelowna is on the brink of a major urban transformation with yet another major Redevelopment Plan, this time for the Burtch & Harvey Area. Spearheaded by PMC (Harvey) Holdings Corp, this ambitious project proposes a vibrant, mixed-use community that integrates residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. It plans to bring more than 1,300 residential units to the area. Here's a closer look at the three innovative concepts that outline the future of this pivotal site.

Detailed Overview of the Proposed Redevelopment

The redevelopment plan introduces three innovative concepts, each offering a slightly different vision for the site's transformation. From restoring Mill Creek Linear Park to creating a bustling high street and establishing a central community hub, these concepts aim to create a space where residents can live, work, and play in harmony with nature and each other.

Concept 1: A Harmonious Blend of Urban and Natural Spaces

The first concept introduces a dynamic urban environment that seamlessly integrates with the natural beauty of Kelowna. This plan proposes:

• Towers and Density: 6 tall towers, with heights varying from 11 to 34 storeys, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
• Podiums: Large podiums, varying from 4 to 6 storeys, serve as the foundation for the towers, featuring retail (1%) and office units (2%) that activate the street level with vibrant commercial activities.
• Central High Street: A lively and intimate high street runs through the center, linking Harvey to Burtch and creating a bustling pedestrian corridor filled with shops and cafes.
• Green Spaces: The design incorporates green spaces and pathways, enhancing connectivity and providing serene urban retreats for residents and visitors alike.

Concept 2: Fostering Community and Connectivity

The second concept focuses on creating a community-centric development that encourages interaction and connectivity. Key features include:

• Strategic Density: This plan features 5 towers with heights ranging from 15 to 39 storeys, which brings less towers, but makes them taller to achieve the desired density.
• Retail and Social Spaces: The podiums ranging from 4 to 7 storeys in this concept provide much larger commercial retail (3%) and office spaces (2%).
• Linkages: Emphasizing connectivity, this concept proposes pedestrian pathways that link the development to key urban amenities, including the adjacent Parkinson Recreation Centre.

Concept 3: The Inner Circle of Urban Living

Concept 3 introduces an innovative approach to urban design, centered around a spacious communal area dubbed the "Inner Circle." This concept envisions:

• Massing: Similar to Concept 2, this plan features 5 towers with heights adjusting from 12 to 37 storeys
• Central Community Hub: At the heart of the development is a large open space, surrounded by towers, designed to be a focal point for community life.
• Mixed-Use Podiums: The podiums, ranging from 6 to 8 storeys, are envisioned as mixed-use spaces that blend residential living with retail (3%) and office spaces (1%), creating a dynamic urban environment.
• Integrated Green Spaces: This concept also integrates green spaces within the development, offering pockets of nature amidst the urban density.

Next Steps in the Redevelopment Process

With these concepts laid out, the next steps involve further public and stakeholder engagement to refine the plans based on community feedback. The project will undergo a series of reviews and approvals by the City of Kelowna, ensuring that the final development aligns with the city's vision for sustainable and inclusive growth.

Each concept brings a new vision to the Burtch & Harvey site, promising to transform it into a landmark of modern urban living in Kelowna. As the project progresses, it stands as a testament to the city's commitment to fostering vibrant, mixed-use communities that cater to the diverse needs of its residents.