Massive Kitchener condo development near Hwy. 401 in limbo

A massive proposed condo development near Highway 401 in Kitchener fell under the scrutiny of the city’s Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee this week.

A representative for the builder, LJM Developments, was grilled on Monday by committee members over a number of issues concerning the two-tower, 726 unit development.

It would be located at 4611 King St. E. That’s a parcel of land that used to be a gas station on the southwest side of King Street, next to the westbound ramp to Highway 401. The build would also back onto Limerick Drive.

Committee members and several delegates has some serious concerns about the plans.

They worry about the number of parking spaces. The plans call for 493 parking spots for the 726 units and visitors. The issue of a lack of walking and cycling infrastructure in the area and the fact that this development would be particularly attractive to commuters, given its proximity to the highway.

Another major issue is the lack of affordable housing units. The plans do not included affordable units and several committee members questioned why that is, given the lack of affordable options.

The developer was not in attendance but was watching the proceedings via Zoom. At one point, he messaged another representative at the meeting who was able to relay a message.

“I just got word from Mr. Mian, the owner of LGM Developments that we can offer ten affordable units.”

There are several traffic concerns with the development, primarily access from King Street. The concern is people making a left turn off of King which will become impossible after the region expands LRT service to Cambridge.

The delegates in attendance were all from the Limerick Drive neighbourhood who had a whole host of issues with the development ranging from concerns over well water contamination, increased traffic and shadows from the 22 and 33-storey towers. The committee heard there has been a history of developments adversely affecting the community.

“Back in 1962 when the 401 was constructed, 27 wells were affected and had to be re-drilled. The Manheim weir impacted 20 homes and the recent 401 expansion impacted a home on Limerick Dr. leaving them without their own water source for at least a year,” said Stephanie Raic, Pinegrove Community Association.

Given all the questions and concerns, the committee opted to defer a vote until its next meeting on Feb. 10.