Dawn Levesque

From:
Sent:

To:
Subject:

christy shaw < mntgoodness@yahoo.ca>

Wednesday, July 22,20L5 2:40 PM
Council; Mark McKee; admin
regarding highway development proposal

Good Afternoon, the following is an email I just sent to the Chamber, and was directed to send it to you as well,
thank you. (this letter is regarding the grocery store/pharmacy proposal)

My two cents. This is an absurd idea. First and foremost, our highway exit (including the above light
intersection by Subway) is busy and dangerous enough. The fact that we have to employ flag persons on
weekends directing traffic so people can idle their way through fast food drive thru's shows us that that part of
town is congested enough. A new grocery store will NOT drive down prices at Coopers and Southside - they
(the new store) will likely charge more as their main customers will be highway traffic in which case they can
charge what ever they like for the convenience of not having to pull into town. Speaking of pulling in to town,
tourists won't, guaranteed. I am situated atthat end of town and talk to a lot of tourists aheady who don't make
it all the way downtown. And remember it is the small businesses in town that support the community's
fundraisers such as skiing and soccer and rod and gun club, bike to work etc etc etc, and if their business goes
down, so will their donations. I myself donate to at least 4 fundraisers a month and wouldn't be able to do this if
my sales were lower. And these new stores will likely pay their employees minimum wage, and considering last
month when I put an add out for staff there were 132 jobs posted in town, this will create an ever greater need
for staff in a town that can't fill jobs. I have lived in a lot of small towns, Blue River, Nelson, Ymir, Jasper, to
name a few, and Revelstoke is by far the most beautiful and charming and charismatic place I have ever hung
my hat. Everyone who comes to visit raves about our downtown core and its shops and cafes and friendly
people. This will change will a highway mall. The fact that this might go ahead infuriates me. It likely won't
even effect my business but my heart breaks at what it will do to other small businesses in town (that have
helped build this community) and the community spirit in general. If people wanted box stores and strip malls
on highways, they would have moved somewhere else to begin with. Sincerely, Christy Shaw, Mountain
Goodness Natural Foods

Robin Brooks-Hill
1070 Cashato Crescent,
Revelstoke, BC
rwbrookhill @tel us.net
July

23,2015

Mr. Dean Strachan,

Manager of Development Services,
City of Revelstoke.
Dear Mr. strachan, RE;

proposed Shopping Centre along Trans-Canada Highway

As a relatively recent newcomer to Revelstoke (9 years), I would like to comment on the above
mentioned proposal.

One of the attractions to me of Revelstoke as a small community was its ntact, vibrant old
downtown with a variety of small independent merchants and businesses.
I come from Southern Ontario where there are many older small communities. I have witnessed
repeatedly in the past half century the gradual deterioration of the old downtowns and hearts of the
communities by the allure of shopping malls on the outskirts of the communities.

Rather than enhance the vibrancy of the local communities, these peripheral developments
have strangled the heart and character of the older communities. The downtowns wither and die and
the town becomes another "cookie cutter' community with franchised non locally owned and operated
enterprises circling the communities.
ln the future, as Revelstoke moves toward more of a resort community, the uniqueness,
quaintness and vibrancy of our downtown is an essential feature to be maintained to distinguish us from
the many other resort communities which lack our heritage.
Please don't be seduced by the allure of new, quick cheaper shopping at the expense of what
we have. I believe a development as proposed, would jeopardize what so many of us cherish and love

about our community.

Sincerely,

Robin Brooks-Hill

CC: Mayor, City

of Revelstoke

Revelstoke Review
Strip mall for Revelstoke, July, 2015

Dawn Levesque

Sent:
To:

Denis Severino <dendiggity@gmail.com>

Thursday, )uly 23,2015 LI:24 AM
Cou nci l; mayorm mckee@ revelstoke.ca

Subject:

Highway Development

From:

Dear Mayor McKee and Revelstoke City Council,

I'm writing to express my opposition to the proposal for the highway development.

Don't corporatize Revelstoke any further!

Driving out small businesses and allowing prohts to line the pockets of investors is shameful.
It's also already congested enough atthat intersection.
Let the tourists buy their corporate wares in other cities, or go downtown to support our small businesses.
Denis Severino

August 5 2015

To Revelstrke Council

REc,i VE,D
AUri 0

RE: Rezoning Request

from, Hall Pacific Enterprise lnc,

CTY

0t

b Z(}tt

REVE LSTO

It is my understanding that this re zoning request is that of the corporate

developer request not a Revelstoke business or any existing ties that are
requiring expansion with no other options to them thus, they have turned to this
property to request a rezoning application.
this rezoning request going to rely only on the traffic from Hl way to service
them? As a retail development of this size and complexity this development will
require larger market than the Hl way can offer for its year round sustainability.
ls

What will this developer offer Revelstoke? As there is not the proper road and
sdewalk infrastructure in place to have residential Revelstoke safely access to this
location. I see no traffic plan use other than in and out with a cul-de-sac approach
fortraffic. Let's see a plan that allows Victoria Road traffic able to access without
accessing the Hl Way.
Plan lacks Accommodation/ refuelling

/ ample Hl way traffic

parking, such as

trailers and truckers. Should this property be consumed for retail, what locations
are there going to be available for Hl way traffic growth and accommodations?
Many retailers and landlords of commercial properties have strong investments in
their present locations. Being blind sided with an OCP change as such of this
nature puts any element of risk into the existing properties. Grocery, drug stores
and liquor, are as you know, anchors, but so are fuel stations Hotels, Motels and
convenience / garden markets stores.
Council should encourage, with incentives that allow the infill for any older
properties and spaces and encourage development within existing boundaries for
any retail growth of this rezoning request. Welcome this developer to invest along

Victoria road, etc.

KE

understand that this property will have commercial development on it one day.
Please insure that development wll fit well with Hi way concernsj traffic flow and
priority use for the limited land that is at Revelstokes gateway.
I

ln summary this request is that of a developer to fulfll their requirements and

their concerns first. Please use caution to consider how you hold to task any
developer's request that does not have Revefstokes OCP at best interest,
Why have an OCP? So it can be changed.... just like rules.
lf this request is approved when and where will the next zone 9 property of this
size be located and allocated given this was part of the plan.

ln my opinion this proposal lack imaginaton. What is Revelstoke going to get, a

strp mall so to speak. f council has the appette for this project then here is a
suggestion. Have this developer comeback with plans that include condos that are
of time share type. Ones to handle this city seasonal shortage of accommodation.
Or better yet more affordable housing. After all this development is to bring the
allure of cheaper groceries, prescription, booze and who know maybe even shoes.
Seriously why not utilize this property with two three even four levels. Great
location for seasonal rentals on upper levels, don't you think.

Good luck with your decisions

Respectfully
Malcol

Cindy Floyd
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:

Eve Fisher <evef@me.com>

Friday, August 07,20L5 5:48 PM

Council; admin
Rezoning of area along Trans Canada

I understand there is an application to rezone the area along the Trans Canada Highway which is currently being set
aside for hotel development and allow it to become a retail complex. I feel strongly that this application should be
denied as it would seriously affect the viability of the downtown core.

to recall the Resort development at the ski hill was incorporated within City Boundaries so that we should have
some control over the growth of the Resort community at the expense of the established downtown area. As a result
the future of the established commercial centre was preserved. ln considering the rezoning application I think we
should make a decision which continues to promote this way of thinking. Allowing a retail development along the
Highway will encourage travellers to make a "Highway stop" and fail to bring them downtown to explore what other
tourist opportunities Revelstoke has to offer.
I seem

Eve Fisher

250 837 26L7

Cindy Floyd
Subject:

FW: HIGHWAY DEVELOPMENT

From: Bill Shuttlewofth [mailto:shuttlewofth@telus.net]

Sent: Saturday, August 15,2015 1:28 PM
To: Council; admin
Subject: HIGHWAY DEVELOPMENT

Your Worship and Councillors;

Re: Proposed rezoning of property on Trans CanadaHighway opposite Hwy. 23 N
Condensed version
anyhow.

1.

2.
3.
4.

a grocery store and pharmacy at this location is

ridiculous. 'Nuff said" but

I'll elaborate

I really don't think Revelstoke needs another of either retailer.

We have an attractive, friendly downtown core. Let's concentrate on that and not become a highway
strip mall.
How often have you been driving along the highway, seen a grocery store or pharmacy and stopped just
for a look see? Anyone, such as campers, needing supplies can and do come into town for them and this
is what we want.
Highway travellers do stop for hotels and such accommodation and once stopped for the night, we can
attractthem to explore our city which again is what we want.

Also, I agree with the person who suggested relocation our entrance up there. A good intersection/entrance
requires space and space is still available there. I doubt there will ever be a good solution to the traffic problem
using the present location.
Yours truly,

IL Slw,rdn'uol^,
250-837-5901

Steven Hui
S&C Hui Enterprises Ltd dba Pharmasave#213
PO Box 680

Revelstoke, B.C.
voE 2s0
Ph : 250-837

-2028 Fx: 250-837 -4636

ma

iI

: owner@

harm asaverevelstoke.com

August 3L,2075
Re: comments on rezoning of the CD-9 area on the TransCanada Highway for retail mall

Dear City of Revelstoke Mayor and Council,

writingto provide my perspective and opinion on the proposed strip mall development
alongtheTransCanada Highway in Revelstoke. lcan stand proud to saythat lam a longtime business
I

am

owner (28 years this coming October) and also property and building owner. I have always told my
friends, colleagues and family how blessed I am to live and do business in a caring and progressive
thinking community. Revelstoke has always been supportive of my businesses over the years and I have
never regretted moving here.

the privilege to sit on two city advisory committees over the last decade - Economic
Development and Community Enhancement, I left the economic development advisory committee a
couple of years ago, but still sit on community enhancement advsory committee. I can say that many of
the projects considered and undertaken have been to improve the amount of traffic into the downtown
area. There are many new young entrepreneurs who have new ventures that need new traffic going by
their business fronts. lt is an ongoing challenge and the development of a large retail centre located on
the highway is certain to divert an appreciable amount of traffic away from the downtown core.
I have had

The millions of dollars of co-operative investment between city and the property owners have

created an authentic and unique walking/shopping experience. I believe Revelstoke has the most
beautful downtown in the interor of BC - bar none. I believe any future development anywhere in the
community needs to maintain or exceed the bar that we have established.
The current land use and zoning (CD-g) is in my opinion stillthe best use of said property. The
downtown businesses rely on every traveller to stop and enjoy the amenities and shop. I know council
will be considering allsides of the proposed development but I call upon an old proverb "a bird in the
hand is worth two in the bush". Thank you for all the work you have done to receive public comment on
this important issue,

Respectfully,

v._/

'-

RECEIVET)
sEP 0 I

205

EIW OF REVELSTOKE

./

Steven Hui

Cindy Floyd
From:
Sent:
To:

Subject:

john p Netzel <johnnetzel56@9mail.com>

Monday, August 3L,2015 9:51 4M
admin
Rezoning of Highway property

The Netzel family has owned a commercial building in downtown Revelstoke for more than 50 years. I am
concerned about the rezoning of property on the highway for a shopping mall.
The downtown revitalization was paid for by a surtax on the building owners for many years in order to bring
tourists into the city. This has been successful and has helped draw people into the downtown area. The
rezoning of the property to allow a shopping area on the highway would quite probably keep tourists from
coming into the city core to shop. This would be detrimental to the businesses in the downtown area and the
owners of the buildings. There are all the services the the traveling public need in the downtown area and this
should be promoted. I believe the council should not rezone this property for a shopping mall which would not
be beneflrcial to the city and the taxpayers who have contributed to the revitalization of the downtown. Thank
you.
John P. Netzel

GEOFFREY S. BATTERSBY, BA, MD,

BOX 480, REVELSTOKE, BC, V0E2S0.

E-MAIL: - geoffbattersby@hotmail.com
PHONE: - 250 837 4540

Sept 1 ,2015

RECEIVED
Mayor Mark McKee and City Council,
City of Revelstoke,
PO Box 170,
Revelstoke, BC, V0E2S0

sEP

20t5

CITYOf RIYEI.STOKE

Dear Mayor McKee and City Council:

Re: - Proposed Zoning change and Mall Development

On TCH Platt Property

I understand there will be a public hearing on this issue on Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2015. I am making
written submission because I may not be in Revelstoke on that date. Please file this as part of the

public record at the hearing.

I believe that the property is currently zoned "Highway Commercial" and that the use is restricted to
the needs of the traveling public - hotel/motel accommodation, fuelling services, convenience
stores, restaurants and fast food outlets, ete. The development proponents want the zoning
broadened to include pharmacies, large-scale grocery stores and other types of retail/service
activity. Anchor tenancies of this nature will surely be a draw away from the City Core.

I had understood that the original zoning was for the specific purpose of keeping a broad range of
retail and other services limited to the Commercial core - Downtown Revelstoke. I now understand

that part of the intent of ommercial development on the highway corridsr is to crcat srvies and
amenities that would assist in drawing the traveling public off the Trans Canada Highway. It is my
opinion that the nature of the requested additional uses will have the opposite effect. If the traveling
public can pick up their groceries and drug store needs on the highway, they will have even less
reason to venture into the City.
For years, the Chamber of Commerce, Fconomic Development Commission and other groups have
struggled with how to attract into town the thousands of tourists that pass by Revelstoke every year
Various efforts on this matter have steadily paid off over the almost 30 years of effort - kicked off
by our landmark Downtown Revitlization Project of 1986. A prime feature that our visitors
appreciate is our vibrant, compact downtown shopping area - a feature that is the envy of many
much larger communities that are trying to revive their downtowns! This attraction must be
protected and encouraged to flourish.

It is of note that new and refurbished malls are seeking to reate the strcet appearanae und "g{reet
feel" ambience in their developments. We don't have to artificially create that. We have it!

It is also of note that the "Smart Communities" concept is largely based on "walkable"
communities. The proposed changes will create an automobile oriented situation.
Why would Revelstoke make the mistake of allowing major retail developments beyond the Cify
Core when so many communities have struggled to revitalize their devastated downtowns following
peripheral shopping centre development? Those communities include Kelowna, Kamloops, Prince
George, Squamish, and many others.I agree that the growth of communities will inevitably require
decentralized shopping reas but Revelstoke is small enough and for some number of years will be
ofa size tojustify restricting the broad ran1e ofretail and other service functions to the central
commercial core.
In the late 80's and early 90's, Council traveled to various resort communities. Common advice was
the time worn maxim "be careful what you wish fof'. Perhaps more importantly, we were advised
to guard against letting developers do projects that would detract from or destroy the very fabric of
Revelstoke that had garnered their attention in the first place. Again, our vibrant downtown is a key
component of what makes Revelstoke so attractive to our visitors, to developers, and to our many
new residents.

A feature of Revelstoke that impacts our retail sector is our relative isolation and the absence of
significant market to draw on in nearby areas. That introduces elements of vulnerability and
fragility to the retail sector.

All of these observations

are not about sparing our existing retailers from competition but rather

about making that competition take place in the Central Commercial Core where it belongs with
attendant enhancement of The Core. This is not a criticism of pro-business and pro-growth
objectives. This is about planning at its highest level. \ilhat are the features and fabric of this
community that we highly value and want to see further developed/enhanced for future generations
to look back on, and say, "They did it right"?
Thank you for your consideration

Sincerely,

Geoffrey S. Battersby

RECEIVE

f
i

sEP 0 3

t,

ee

g cL*hv,4
(,,n,
li /.,
C*,.t. ..

2015

CITY OF REI'E.9TOKE

t'tmdcrthLvt4s

September 2,2015

Bette's Underthings & Clothing

Box 899,

Revelstoke BC, VOE 2S0

City of Revelstoke
Planning and Engineering Department
216 Mackenzie Ave,
Box 170
Revelstoke BC, V0E 2S0

To Whom lt May Concern,

writing this letter to express my concern for the proposed development on the Trans-Canada
Highway across from the Frontier Motel and Restaurant.
I am

As a new business owner and long-time resident of Revelstoke, this proposed development concerns me
on many levels, Since moving to here in 1988, the City of Revelstoke has worked diligently to promote

our stunning downtown, We now have a destination to be proud of that is distinctive and beautiful.
Tourists and locals have kept the downtown vibrant, and it would be a shame to see a highway
development jeopardise this, As a business owner, I have invested a considerable amount of both
money and time into growing a successful enterprise downtown, and it scares me to think of the
consequences of promoting an area for tourists to shop on the highway. Do we really want Revelstoke
to become another town that loses its uniqueness with the development of big box stores?
The City of Revelstoke and its citizens have to keep the vision of our stunning little city and the direction
of future developments in mind, and make sure it's the best interest of all concerned.
Let's work together to ensure a vibrant downtown is maintaned, with successful businesses at its core!

Most Sincerely,
Yvette Pendergast
Owner/Bette's Underthings & Clothing

Cindy Floyd
Dean Strachan
Friday, September 04,2015 3:32 PM

From:
Sent:
To:
Subiect:

admin
Fwd:Trans Canada Highway shopping centre proposal

Sent from my iPhone

Begin forwarded message:

From : Julia Sievwright <juliasievwri ght@email. com>
Date: September 4,2015 at3:29:07 PM PDT
To : "development@revel stoke.ca" (development@revelstoke.ca>
Cc: Goodman Judy <executive@revelst
, markmckee <markmckee@telus.net>
Subject: Trans Canada Highway shopping centre proposal

Mayor and Council:

A few unoriginal observations regarding the proposed retail complex on the TransCanada
Highway.
-Revelstoke is an isolated, limited, fragile, retail market with a potential trading area that is
negligible to nonexistent
-A significant number of existing retailers exist in Revelstoke primarily based on lifestyle
choices but aren't actually achieving a market return on equity and aren't able to pay themselves
market wages or salaries for their efforts. They are nonetheless a very important part of the
culture and appeal of Revelstoke. They will however not all be able to withstand the fracturing
of the hnite market that the addition of another retail node will undoubtedly cause.
-Another much larger retail node at RMR is already approved pursuant to the Master
Development Agreement and will be constructed as demand warrants. Revelstoke is inexorably
destined to grow south of Nicol Road and at a density much greater than that of the existing City
-The existing supermarkets in Revelstoke are currently under utilized, especially Southside
Market, and were adequate to serve Revelstoke's needs when Revelstoke's population was
12,000 persons. Both have subsequently been expanded. If further GFA of supermarkets has
been warranted, Pattison has had ample opportunity to expand into adjoining spaces
-The Holy Grail of Revelstoke merchants for the 25 years I've been around has been to get the
tourists/travelers on the TransCanada Highway to stop in Revelstoke for more than one night.
RMR has solved the winter visitations. The summer and shoulder seasons remain a goal despite
some wonderful initiatives such as the Glacier Challenge and Grizzley Plaza entertainment. Very
few travelers stay ovemight in grocery stores on purpose!
-Steve Platt was the most professional developer Revelstoke has seen in the past25 years. Steve
had the subject land zoned for hotels because that is the highest and best use of the land from a
planning and commercial perspective. Basic planning calls for highway oriented uses to be on
the highways and pedestrian oriented retail to be in the core of any town.
-Steve Platt gave up on Revelstoke due to the negativity of the Raven years. A number of
developers, both local and imports, declined to attempt any development whatsoever until the
Raven years ended. The Raven years are gone and a positive attitude is inbued in the current
Council and throughout the City so with a little patience I expect that some appropriate projects
1

will

be coming forward in the coming year.

-The subject lands are uniquely situated between the TransCanada Highway and amajor railroad
line within a very attractive city. The owners of the Rocky Mountaineer and I have a mutual
friend to whom they have expressed their preference to overnight in downtown Revelstoke,
rather then the exurbs of Kamloops. They have identified two thresholds to moving to
Revelstoke: the paucity of sufficient uniformly superior accommodation and frnalizing a
definitive agreement with the railroad for an appropriate siding at the subject property. I'm
certainly not the first or only person to realize the very significant economic benefit of an
infusion of well-heeled trail travclers Lluough l.he spring, summer and fall seasons. Steve Platt
had a rudimentary massing/rendering study compiled on this very topic. Two years ago Steve
gave me a copy should Council wish to see what the future could/should look like.
-North America is littered with hundreds of small towns that fell for the allure of an increased tax
base and glitzier shopping outside of the retail core. Tragically, with the finite market divided,
the econonrically tnarginal rctails in f.he core could no longer tread water, closed down and left
town never to return. Then, the larger corporate operator on the fringe sometimes determined that
it's resources could better be deployed in a larger, growing market and also closed dou,n lea.,,ing
the towns with two week retail nodes. This pattern is so pervasive that a documentary film exists
of case studies with, as I recall, the outlier usually being Walmart. Perhaps the film is available
from PBS.
-I believe that the Greeley Adventure Park will ultimately attractthose elusive two night visitors
in the summer. Those visitors will require a varied option of hotel accommodations. The subject
lands are the best location for such accommodations considering the infrastructure within the
City and the lack of infrastructure at Greeley. Hopefully the City would plan for a pedestrian
oriented corridor from the hotel node to the downtown retail core via the crossing at the Railway
Museum.
-The subject prooosal includes a liquor store. The current price of a liquor store license is
$700,000 but more significant even if the proponent purchased a licence would be the
requirement that the Best Western terminate its liquor store license. So unless the proponents
have made a deal with Brady and Fred I suspect that the proponents have not conducted proper
market research on this project.
-Permitting the proposed uses on what should be hotel lands would be an irreversible gamble by
Council with negligible upside-- a gamble which the city cannot afford to make because it cannot
afford to lose.
-Doing something for the sake of seeing something done seldom ends well.
Thank you for your consideration.
Robert Powadiuk
Sent from my iPhone
Sent from my iPad
Sent from my iPad

Alpine Village Shopping Centre Ltd.

555 Victoria Street, Suite 203
P.O. Box 256L
Revelstoke, B.C. VOE 2S0
September 8, 2015

Mayor and Council

City of Revelstoke
Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on the rezoning of the CD-9 area. ln
contemplation of this letter we have solicited comments from our tenants and the Chamber of
Commerce which we have used in drafting this letter. The tenants and merchants have been
encouraged to provide their own independent comments, and we do not represent those
independent businesses in this submission.
The Alpine Village Mall is an independent family owned business with 16 tenants and
supporting infrastructure. The Cooper family have been an integral part of the business
community in Revelstoke for over 60 years and are proud to carry forward our long term
commitment to the community in partnership with our tenants.

We encourage the city to address the rezoning request for CD-94 in the context of the Official
Community Plan and the more recent lntegrated Sustainability Plan, as both clearly define
community values and a future vision of a healthy, safe and inviting community which
embraces environmental sustainability and responsible actions. The revitalization and
enhancement of the downtown core not only attracts tourism and business traffic and is a
proud focal point for the community, but also embraces the concepts of walkability and a less
automobile reliant commercial core. The Alpine Mall has been proud to support this community
enhancement and is currently completing a cosmetic revitalization using the same designers as
the city to ensure that the mall is part of the community vision. We are concerned that the
approval of a strip mall zone outside of the core business area will detract from, and negate the
revitalization and enhancernent work of the last 20 years. Regardless of the design work in CD94, it will not and cannot duplicate the character and beauty of the downtown core, and will
inevitably detract and discourage further development in the downtown core.
The proposed strip mall plans shown in support of the zoning change appear to duplicate the
services provided by the merchants and tenants of the Alpine Mall. ln many similar strip malls
the business profile is often franchise operations, or smaller outlets for chain style merchants
rather than the locally owned and operated business community that prevails in the downtown
business core, and much of the Alpine Village Mall. We see the proposed strip mall as direct
competition for our tenants, and the downtown merchants and are concerned that this may
detract from the economic health, vitality and character of the core.

The development of a strip mall will precipitate a business decision that will provide short term
encouragement to promote the success of the new strip mall. The longer term implications of
this strategy will be a devaluation of property values in the downtown core, with predictable
decreases in property assessments which may NOT lead to decreased taxation as the city will
be providing at least the current level of services for a languishing downtown core. We have
noted in many communities where strip malls or large retail outlets have been developed that
the downtown cores suffer and often become the focus of less desirable changes in business
profiles and character.

We have looked at the existing OCP and ISP and current land use and zoning for the city in
preparation of our comments on this rezoning application. The current zoning and uses in CD-9
zone are in our opinion the best use of the lands. These properties are very valuable for
highway access and accommodations with world class views and opportunities, which would be
lost in a strip mall development. While we appreciate the pressures on local governments to
allow unfettered development and encourage short term opportunities, we encourage you all
to consider the long term wellbeing of the community with a longer term vision of the best land
use decisions available to you.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment. We understand that these comments will be read
into the records at the public hearing into this rezoning and that we are free to have
representation at the hearing as well.
Yours truly,

Wayn

Cooper

Dawn Levesque
Mark Mckee

From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:

Attachments:

markmckee@telus.net>
Thursday, September L7,20L5 9:26 AM
Dawn Levesque; Dean Strachan
Fwd: Attention Mark Mckee
winmail.dat; 4TT00001-.htm
<

Sent from my iPhone

Begin forwarded message:

From: "McKees" <lqgkg@Iglug4gP

I)ate: September 17,2015 at9'21:57 AM PDT
To: "'Mark Mckee"' <markmckee@telus.net>
Subject: FW: Attention Mark Mckee

From: fred lee [mailto:fred lee44@hotmail.com]

Sent: September-16-15 9:55 AM
To: Mark Mckee
Subject: Attention Mark Mckee

Good morning Mr Mayor,

We are writing this letter in support of the proposed TCH development.
This project can only do good things for our community, employment during
the construction phase
and staffing the stores once open.

Move our community forward, approve this project.

Regards

Fred & Penny Lee

PO Box 46915, STN D

Vancouver, BC, V6J 5M4
hallpacific.com

HALL

PACIFIC

PROJECT RATIONALE
Date:
Re:

Prepared For:
Prepared By:

September 21"t,2075
Revelstoke Crossing Development
Mayor McKee & Members of Council
Hall Pacific

PROIECT OVERVIEW

Development Name:

Revelstoke Crossing

Location:

Revelstoke, British Columbia

Municipality:

City of Revelstoke

Property:

See Legal

Civic Address:

1750 Trans-Canada Hwy; 1702 Bend Road

Site Size:

Approximately 9.48 acres [412, 949

OCP Land Use:

Highway Commercial

Existing Zoning:

CD-09

Development Program

Highway Oriented Shopping Plaza

Tenantsr

Description,4 ppendix A

SFJ

Grocery Store

Drug Store

Liquor
Financial (drive-through)
Restaurants
Coffee [drive-through]
Oil & Lube
CRU

GBA:

Approximately 63, 350 SF

Parking:

307 spaces

Site Plan

See

Appendix B

PO Box 46915, STN D

Vancouver, BC, V6J 5M4
hallpacifc.com

HALL

PACIFIC

PROJECT RATIONALE
PREAMBLE
The following project rationale employs fundamental elements found within the City of Revelstoke's
Official Community Plan to better understand the objectives of the proposed retail-development to
be located att750 Trans Canada Highway and1702 Bend Road. It also considers features from the
Revelstoke Retail Strategy Report that lend support to this development and highlight immediate and
ong term benefts. Finally, this rationale attempts to align the project with municipal guidelines and
goals to ensure a positive integration into the community of Revelstoke.

OCP ELEMENTS

1.

SITE CHOICE & EFFICIENT LAND USE

The proposed development would be located on the southern part of the highway corridor with
primary access to site off the Highway 1 / Highway 23 intersection. According to the City of
Revelstoke's OCP, the lands are designated for Highway Commercial and provide an opportunity to
enhance a very prominent location in a manner this is representative of the fcrm and character cf
this alpine community and marketable to highway travelers. Moreover, this development could
provide an excellent means of engaging travellers who currently pass through Revelstoke without
stopping. Engagement could be achieved through information boards or pavilions that communicate
tourist attractions and direct traffic to the central business district, Finally, as the site is bare land
and fully serviced with both water and sewer, it allows for a new development of this scope to be
financially feasible from a land acquisition and construction standpoin! which could not be achieved
in areas ofhigher density.

2.

LOCALECONOMY

Direct Investment and Expanded Tax Base

Revelstoke Crossing is expected to contribute over $20 million to the loca economy through the
development process and increase the municipal property tax base by over $500,000 per year.

Capture Highway Traffic

The Retail Strategy Report indicates that between 3.8 to 5.2 million travelers pass through
Revelstoke on the Trans Canada Highway on an annual basis. These travelers have disposable
incomes but are often not stopping in Revelstoke due to the inefficient access to amenities or because
of the limited highway retail amenities currently offered. The Revelstoke Crossing development
would increase the percentage ofretail dollars captured by pass through travelers by providing
convenient access to a variety of shopping amenities. This strategy is in-line with one of the key goals
of Revelstoke's Official Community Plan, which is to expand retail and service capacity to meet the
needs ofvisitors.

PO Box 46915, STN D

Vancouver, BC, V6J 5M4
hallpacifc.com

HALL

PACIFIC

PROJECT RATIONALE
Reduction of sales "outflow"
The Retail Report indicates that by 2016, sales "outflow" out of Revelstoke will be approximately
$33.9 million. To counter this "outflow", the report recommends the following increase in retail floor
space:
. Over 30,000 sqfofnew convenience / services, including Food and Health & Personal Care
. Over 100,000 sqf of new food/beverage/entertainmen including Entertainment Services
and Restaurants & Cafes

Revelstoke Crossing will offer a variety of new retail and service options that will contribute to
reducing this outflow and help keep millions of dollars in the Revelstoke market,

Immediate Employment Opportunities

The construction of this 63,000 square foot development will require around 200 personnel, An
approximate breakdown of construction opportunities would be as follows:
. Excavation
15 people

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

Forming
Framing
Paving
Electrical
Plumbing
Roofing
Masonry
Cladding
Landscapers
Offsite/Serving

20-40 people
30-50 people
20-40 people
5 people
5 people
5 people
5 people
5 people
20 people
20-30 people

Long-term Employment Opportunities

The development is expected to create over 200 new permanent jobs for the community. An
approximate breakdown of employment opportunities based on intended uses would be as follows:
. Grocery
40-45 employees
. Financial
12-15 employees
. Liquor
I -10 employees
. Drug
20 -25 employees
. Restaurant
45-50 employees
. Restaurant
30-40 employees
. Restaurant
20-25 employees
. Oil & Lube
12-15 employees

. CRUs

25-30

PO Box 46915, STN D

Vancouver, BC, V6J 5M4
hallpacific.com

PACIFIC

HALL

PROJECT RATIONALE
3.

COMMUNITY

Today, residents of Revelstoke are paying some of the highest prices on consumer goods in British
Columbia and based on The Revelstoke Retail Strategy Report there is a strong indication that
resicients ciesire more competitive retai pricing anci improved quaiity of goods within the
community. The Revelstoke Crossing development is targeting national level tenants, which will
bring both competitive pricing and a high standard of quality for local residents to benefit from.
The OCP indicates thatwith stagnant Forest and Rail Transportation sectors expected over the next
decade, Revelstoke will iucleasingly rey on tourism as the rnajol econouric and populatiou driver. Iu
order to ensure this growth in tourism is achieved, the City should allow for new retail opportunities
that embrace large visitor and tourism-based markets. A huge opportunity exists with the
development of Revelstoke Crossing to create a synergistic interaction with the rest ol the business
community to draw in new visitors. Marketing mechanisms can be integrated on to the site to
provide exposure to tourist activities with the intent of extending the length of visits and the

expenditures per visit.

4,

BUILDINGFORMAND CHARACTER

The proposal is to build a highway oriented shopping plaza with a variety of commercial tenants. The
design will be a mix of traditional and contemporary, with each tenant space having its own unique
faade and character. The design will incorporate quality materials such as; cultured stone, acrylic
stucco, cement fiber siding, coloured metal roofing, and timberframe wood elements. The colours will
be varied on each space, but they will all draw from a common colour scheme to unify the unique
spaces. The colours and tones used are mainy earth tones and blue tones to relate to the tones of
Revelstoke's Forests, Mountains, and the Columbia River. Accents of white and deep red wil contrast
the cool tones and relate to Revelstoke's heritage buildings and vibrant community, Metal roofing,
stone details, timberframe gables and columns, and a few shed roofs will add a rustic aesthetic that
pays homage to Revelstoke's growing winter tourist attractions. The mix of styles complements
Downtown Revelstoke's unique collection of modern and heritage buildings and will reinforce
Revelstoke's identity.

TIMETINE
Zoning Amendment

fuly 2015 - December 2016

January 2016

Development Permit
Building Permit
Construction

April2016 -lune2OL7

Opening

luly 2077

February 2016

PO Box 46915, STN D

Vancouver, BC, V6J 5M4
hallpacific.com

HALL

PACIFIC

PROJECT RATIONALE
SUMMARY
The Revelstoke Crossing development stands to provide substantial economic benefit to the City of
Revelstoke by complying with objectives found within the Official Community Plan and putting into
action recommendations laid out in the Retail Strategy Report. To recap the benefits associated with

this project:

.
.
.
.
.

Strategic location will allow the capture of existing pass through traffic and millions of
dollars of additional revenue
$20+ million direct investment with a $500,000 increase in the municipal tax base
A reduction in the millions of dollars that currently "outflow" out of Revelstoke
Over 200 immediate and long-term job opportunities created
Strengthening of the Revelstoke community as a whole by enlarging the town's retail trade
area and allowing existing businesses to capitalize on the increased volume of visitor traffic

The cumulative benefits derived from this development will assist Revelstoke in reaching its full
potential as a mountain resort community and elevate its position within the very competitive alpine

resort industry.
Any questions regarding this project rationale can be directed towards Michael Spaull, Development
Manager - Hall Pacific at mike@hallpacific.com or 778-960-4878. We look forward to continued
discussions at the Public Hearing scheduled for September 29th at 3pm.

PO Box 46915, STN D

Vancouver, BC, V6J 5M4
hallpacifc.com

HALL

PACIFIC

PROJECT RATIONALE
APPENDIX
APPENDIX "A"
Legal Description of Property

1.

1750 Trans-Canada Hwy

Parcel Identifier: 015-9 43-L9 4

Parcel A (See 350971) of Parcel 3 (See Plan F-SJ of Section 34

Township 23
Range 2 West of the 6th Meridian
Kootenay District
Except (1J That Part Included in Plan R257 and (21 Plans 4624 andNEP72429

1702 Bend Road

Parcel Identifier:
Lot A
Section 34
Township 23

13-066-145

Range 2 West of the 6th Meridian

Kootenay District
Plan 4624
Except Part Included in Plan 8437

PO Box 46915, STN D

Vancouver, BC, V6J 5M4
hallpacific.com

HALL

PACIFIC

PROJECT RATIONALE
APPENDIX ''B''

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'Llj!*tet r"r

From: noreplv@civicplus.com
City of Revelstoke website Contact Us
Date: September 23, 2015 at 6:18:53 AM PDT
To: <amason @cityofrevelstoke.com>
Subject: Online Form Submittal: Contact Us
Contact Us
Your

Name

Email

Nick Thomas

Address nicktinbc@telus.net

How Would You Prefer To Be

Contacted:

Which Department Do You Wish to

Contact?

By Email

Economic Development

Please indicate how we can be of assistance to you.

One thing I predict about the Revelstoke Crossing development is that it will completely jam up when

there is a highway closure. Many delayed drivers want to park as close to the highway as possible. So
like the parking around Mcdonalds and the Shell they will fill up the parking at Revelstoke Crossing.
Good luck any locals who need to do any shopping there until the highway reopens - it isn't accessible
without a car, especially in winter. Downtown you can always find somewhere to park.

Dawn Levesque
From:
Sent:
To:

Subject:

I am

Richard Tucker

rtucker@sw1O.ca >
Wednesday, September 23,2015 6:41 AM
<

admin
Revelstoke Crossing Shopping Centre

fully in support of the Revelstoke Crossing Shopping Centre.

The proposed development is on the highway and will have little direct impact on the City environment. The shopping
centre will mainly serve highway traffic passing by Revelstoke.

the downtown merchants are concerned about potential lost business. I have been in development for
years
40
over
and the reality is that most Hwy 1 through traffic does not take the time to get off the highway and come
into the downtown area. While there may be some lost business in the downtown, this will be more than offset by the
increased revenues, jobs and taxes that will accrue to Revelstoke from tourists passing by on Hwy 1 and who would
never take the time to come into the downtown in any case.
I understand

Travelers who want to check out Revelstoke's great downtown will come into town regardless of a shopping centre on
Hwy L. Those who are passing by are looking for a quick and convenient stop and willjust continue on with their travels
without better shops and services on the Highway. I do not see it as win lose but rather capturing more opportunities
for Revelstoke that would otherwise be lost without this development.
Are we willing to create opportunities, jobs and tax revenues for our residents or are we going to push away all change?

Subject:
Attachments:

Retail Strategy Executive Summary

Draft Retail Strategy 2006.jpeg.tiff

From
m: Universal Footwear
F
[ma
ailto:universall@rctvonline.n
net]
Sentt: Friday, Sep
ptember 25, 2015 8:10 AM
To: C
Council; admin
Subjject: Retail Strategy Execu
utive Summarry

oCityCouncil
Hello
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Malccolm&Debbie
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www.u
universalfootwear.com
phone:12508373855
fax:122508373899
universsal@rctvonline.ne
et

REGEIVED
Glen O'Reilly
Box 1 424,
Revelstoke BC

sEP 2 {

20t5

September 22,2O15

CIIV Of RB'EIfOKE

VOE 2SO

Attn: Mayor Mark McKee and Members of Council,

I realize that the question before Council is in regards to re-zoning the property at
1750 TCH & 1702 Bend Rd, and not whether to allow a highway development on this
site. However it is difficult to have one conversation without having the other.
will start by stating that I am oooosed to the re-zoning of the properties to allow
for the use of "grocery, pharmacy and health & wellness". With that said, I am not
opposed to highway developments, l'm opposed to this pafticular development on
this pafticular site.
I

This debate goes beyond just a strip mall on the highway. This debate has
brought us to the juncture where we, as a City, need to start asking ourselves what we
are and where we want to be in 25 years. I keep hearing the term "Resort Town"
being tossed around, that we are a resort town. No we're not, not yet. However we
can be... with foresight and the right planning.

, We need to look at this site and realize what it has to otfer. Given its proximity to
the highway and the railway line, and the fact that it is perched between the two,
make it a unique piece of property. Mr. Platt had a vision for this property and his
original proposal of a hotel and a siding for the Rocky Mountaineer was a perfect fit for
this site. However, to waste this opportunity on a generic strip mall that can be placed
anywhere along the highway would be irresponsible. Now I realize that when I say
Rocky Mountaineer your eyes are rolling back in your heads, and that you feel you
have addressed this option. However it is my understanding that the major holdback
to this scenario is a lack of accommodations (beds) that represent the standard that
the Rocky Mountaineer maintains for their passengers. The goal then, is to find the
right hotel chain that can meet these standards. Because, in the long run, having
guests of the Rocky Mountaineer walking and taking shuttles into downtown will do far
more for the local businesses that rely on tourism than a strip mall on the highway
ever will. Now l'm not naive, I realize what is involved in this type of project and what is
required to bring these types of players together. Yes it will take etfort, yes, it will take
time and yes, this is what is required if we are going to be a Resort destination.

With regards to highway development, highway development is inevitable, it is

going to happen. The question is, what kind of development do we want, where do
we want to put it ancj how do we want it to iook? Do we want homogenized strip malls
with corporate architecture, so we will resemble the entrance to every town between
t\./loncton and Nlerritt? fe ssr.n,er requires a balanced approach. Unfortunately
Revelstoke is at a population density that does not warrant too many duplicate
services. By adding certain retail businesses on the highway you will be detracting
from businesses downtown. ln simple terms, for a town this size to have two business
hubs is counterprocjuctive. Revelstoke ooes not need more retatt space on the
highway, we have retail space and properly in town that can fill this need. The strategy
then, would be to determine what businesses would accentuate and benefit the town,
go out and find them, and then sell them on befits of having a business in Revelstoke.
Duplicating businesses and services on the highway will not benefit the
community, it will only keep tourist from venturing downtown. lf tourists are able to
conveniently pull off the highway to load up their RV's and trailers with groceries,
liquor, bug spray and sunscreen, and then head on their merry way, then there will be
no reason for them to come into the town centre. With regards to the argument that
has been used, "tha|So/o of the tratfic from the highway development will be drawn
into town" doesn't hold water. The reality is that the majority of RV's and trailers that
we currently see lining Victoria Ave. in the summer will be up at the highway shopping
an*ra

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why so many organizaTions and agencies go to such effort and cost to promote
"Historic Downtown Revelstoke" and then we give tourists every reason not to come
downtown.

As I have stated already, you don't want to duplicate (and thus dissipate) what
services we have. What we need is to add businesses and services that, 1) fit a need,
and 2) fit the location (highway). For example, r.e don't harye a General N/lotors
dealership or any dealership other than Ford. We don't have a snowmobile dealer, yet
we are a sleder's paradise, and we don't have a boat/marine dealership/storage, yet
Lake Revelstoke is directly up Hwy 23 N. And yes... we need a hotel for the guests of
the Rocky Mountaineer. lt is larger highway access businesses such as these that we
should be seeking out and actively attracting, not more retail services.
You will notice I'm using proactive comments such as "seeking out and actively
attracting" and a "strategy" to "determine what businesses would accentuate the town
and then go out and find them". As well as terms like "generic highway development"
and "homogenized strip mall". That is because without the first you will be stuck with
the second. lf we are ever going to be a Resort destination and not just a tourist town
(or as some call us, a town with tourists) then we have to plan in that direction, and
with regards to urban planning, this is something we currently do not do.

Proper urban planning and bylaws directed towards building and architectural
themes create Resort towns. What we currently have are developers coming to us
saying they want to build pro.lect 'A' on lot 'B', and we say yes or no. This is not town
planning, this is planning by default. We need to determine the best uses for these
sites and then seek out the best companies or developers to bring it all together. We
need to go to them, instead of waiting for someone to come to us. We have
opportunities that other communities would love to have, we just have to make sure
we use them wisely and don't squander them. Development for development sake is
default planning, and as the best little City in Canada we owe it to ourselves to do
better than default planning.
ln closing, as with the revitalizaTion project for the downtown, creating a Resort
town takes vision and commitment. lt will require bringing community members and
City statf together to work towards that vision. lt will require individuals and a team to
sell that vision to potential businesses and developers, and yes it will take time. I'm
sure you'll agree, it will be time well spent.

Thank you for your time in this matter and I trust you will do what is in the best
interest of Revelstoke.

Glen O'Reilly

Subject:

Support for additional uses Platt property TCH

OriginalMessage
From:Rem[mailto:melnyk811@gmail.com]
Sent:Friday,September25,201512:30PM
To:admin
Subject:SupportforadditionalusesPlattpropertyTCH
Pleaseacceptthisemailassupportfortheadditionalusesfortheabovementionedproperty.ItisnottheCitys'roleto
playmothertothebusinesscommunity,buttoprovidealevelplayingfieldforall.Successisdependantontheabilities
oftheownernotonrestrictivezoning.
Thanks
BobMelnyk
CreatedbyTreeTalker

David Lafreniere
Owner Peoples Drug Mart #110
PO Box 3000
Revelstoke, BC
V0E 2S0

September 25, 2015

RE: Proposed TransCanada Highway Development, Revelstoke

Dear Council City of Revelstoke:

I would like to thank the city for reading and considering public input on this
important issue before us. I wanted to take the opportunity to formally write and
address the bylaw amendment.

Rezoning the proposed site to allow both a grocery and a pharmacy is a huge
mistake for our community and I strongly oppose this amendment. Doing so is a
duplication of existing services that is unnecessary. Pharmacies and grocery stores
serve as commercial anchors tha attract other businesses and customers. By
allowing this amendment to the development, as proposed, we are removing
reasons for people to come into town and robbing our downtown core small
businesses of the opportunity to market to these potential customers. We will also
be destabilizing the business core by splitting the finite customer base in
Revelstoke. This will in turn hurt the economic viability of the duplicated and locally
owned retailers. It is also well known that we have existing issues attracting people
to the downtown core from the highway and positioning anchor businesses on the
highway will ensure that our core will suffer losses to the inroads we have made.

Given the scale of this development it is unlikely that these businesses will be a part
of our overall business community as they will most likely be large corporate
franchises with their own national marketing and advertising plans. Also given the
duplication of services that is proposed there is almost certainly an us versus them
mentality that will take hold amongst the downtown core and the highway strip
mall. We are also talking about the splitting of an already shrinking pie particularly
in pharmacy given the current population is not growing and in the last 15 years has
contracted. The only way to support an additional 63,000 sq ft of retail space during
the off seasons is to bleed off dollars being spent in the downtown core. In order to
do so it is not an uncommon practice for large corporate retailers to use predatory
pricing and operating at losses to break into new markets. These practices literally
put smaller retailers out of business, as most small retailers cannot operate at losses
for any appreciable amount of time.

Recently there have been comments made in the Revelstoke Times Review that even
if the development increases downtown traffic by 1 % its worth doing. This makes

the false assumption that the strip mall will not decrease the traffic into the town
and could only increase it. Hall Pacific contends The Revelstoke
Crossing development would increase the percentage of retail dollars captured by
pass through travellers by providing convenient access to a variety of shopping
amenities. This strategy is in-line with one of the key goals of Revelstokes Official
Community Plan, which is to expand retail and service capacity to meet the needs of
visitors. This would seem good if you actually consider someone stopping on the
outskirts of town a visitor. Is everyone that currently stops at the Shell on the
highway for gas a visitor to Revelstoke? Capturing additional dollars from flow
through traffic by the corporate franchises and diversion of dollars from the
downtown core will only benefit the developers and these national entities. Profit
from these operations will not be local. Reinvestment in the core community is very
unlikely as there is no economic upside for the highway development to have a
thriving community core especially when the strip mall will be a duplication of
many downtown core services.

Hall pacific also contends that a benefit of this development will be a Strengthening
of the Revelstoke community as a whole by enlarging the towns retail trade area
and allowing existing businesses to capitalize on the increased volume of visitor
traffic." Again the only businesses that will be capitalizing on this development will
be the ones on the highway as there will remove all reason for the convenience
stops which are by far the greatest number to come into town. It is literally not in
the developments best interest to drive traffic to their locally owned small business
downtown core competitors. I can say with honestly I will not be directing traffic
from the downtown to the highway development, as it is not in my best interest to
do so. It is naive to believe that this development is for the good of the town and not
about the profit of the developers and the corporate retail tenants they will house.

The only real benefit that this development will bring is an increase in the tax base
for the City of Revelstoke and a number of minimum wage jobs to support our
seasonal ski visitors. Is this worth the economic viability of existing small retailers
in our downtown core? We will also be giving up the ideal location for another hotel,
which has no negative impact on our existing downtown core and would provide
the same benefits as this development with none of the drawbacks.

Having been born and raised in Revelstoke I believe in our community and I have
done just what is always been encouraged. I have invested my families future in our
town. It was my hope that buying my pharmacy would ensure my new family would
able to be raised in Revelstoke as well as help to maintain our core by preventing a
large pharmacy chain, Rexall, from purchasing my pharmacy. There is good reason
that an independent individual has never opened a third pharmacy in Revelstoke. A
regular individual could not afford to operate a third pharmacy with this small a
customer base. Only a large national chain could move in and be prepared to lose
money for several years through predatory pricing in order to break into and secure
a market as limited as Revelstoke.

I think the real question before us is why do we want duplicate existing downtown
core to the highway with another generic strip mall. This is a strategy that has been
detrimental to many small communities across BC that have tried experiments like
this. I know that I am not alone in saying I have never been into Merritt or Golden as
everything is located on the highway. It would seem foolhardy to believe that the
highway development will support driving traffic into Revelstoke and the
downtown core as this is in direct opposition of their own interests. Their business
model will be based on swallowing all the highway traffic and attracting local dollars
out to support this massive retail space and the costs associated with it.
Development for the sake of development is not progress. If there really is the need
for this much additional retail space as the developer claims than it should be able
to stand without duplicating existing downtown core retailers and in particular
pharmacy which is extremely population sensitive.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

David Lafreniere
Owner Peoples Drug Mart

Subject:

Comments re new shopping centre

From: Mark Gunner [mailto:mg@northof60group.com]

Sent: Sunday, September 27, 2015 7:02 PM
To: admin
Subject: Comments re new shopping centre

HelloRevelstokeCouncil,
WemovedtoRevelstokein2011fromOntario.OurfirststopinRevelstokewasin1983whenwedrovefromVancouver
toBanffandback.Westoppedattherestaurantonthehighway...TheFrontier.Wedidnotventureintotown.Our
nextvisitwasin2008andagainin2009whenweskiedthenewresort.Onbothofthosetrips,wecommentedonwhat
agreatdowntownRevelstokehad.Wehadoftenspokeoflivinginthemountainsandmadethedecisioninlate2009to
movetoRevelstoke.Ourdecisionwasbasedlargelyontheexcellentskiing,butalsoonthetownitself.Goodskiingcan
alsobefoundatplaceslikeKickingHorseandFernie,butneitherofthoseplacesgaveusthegreatsmalltownfeeling
thatRevelstokeprovides.Ourinitialfeelingshavebeenconfirmedandwehavenoregretswithourdecisiontomove
here.
WestillmaintainacottageinOntarioanddrive4,000kmacrossthecountrytwiceeachyear.4,000kilometrestakesus
throughmanysmalltownsinCanadaandIcantellyou,thatwhenwearedrivingtheTransCanadahighway,ifatownis
goodenoughtoputashoppingcentreoutatthehighway,wedonotwastetimeheadingintodowntown.
RenfrewisasmalltownaboutanhourawayfromourcottageinOntario.Ithasapopulationof8,200.Afewyearsago,
Walmartandafewotherlargeboxstoresopenedupnearthehighway.Ifweareshoppingforsomethingwhenwe
drivepastRenfrew,wewouldnotthinkofheadingdowntown.Itissomuchmoreconvenienttoshopoutnearthe
highway.
WebothfeelthatashoppingcentreoutatthehighwaywillbedetrimentaltobusinessindowntownRevelstokeand
wouldeventuallychangethetownfortheworst.ManyofourshoppingtripstoCoopersorPharmasavepromptusto
walkaroundtowntoseewhatisnewinthestores.Peoplewillnotbewithinwalkingdistanceofdowntowniftheyare
shoppingoutatthehighwayandmaynotmakeanyotherstopsintown.
Werealizethatthiscouncilcampaignedonbeingmoreprodevelopment,butwehopethatyouwillnotbeapproving
thisprojectjusttoproveyourprodevelopmentattitude.
Regards,
MarkandVirginiaGunner
2508376512
OntariountilOct126137561061

Subject:

Proposed highway development

From: karen s [mailto:brokenspoke70@hotmail.com]

Sent: Monday, September 28, 2015 11:54 AM
To: admin
Subject: Proposed highway development

AsIamunabletoattendthecouncilmeetingtodaywhereintheproposedhighwaydevelopmentwillbe
discussed,Iwouldliketovoicemylackofsupportforthisproposeddevelopment.Asalongtermresidentof
Revelstoke,withapassionateinterestinhowwedevelopeconomically,environmentally,andespecially,
socially,Ifeelthisdevelopmentproposalisaterriblefitforthetownandforourprojectedcommunityvision.
HavewenotseenthissameideaplayoutenoughtimesacrosssmallandmidsizedtownsacrossCanadato
KNOWwhattheresultswillbe?ThinkingofVernon,andSalmonArmwithit'srecentWalmartadditionI
wouldlovetoseeCouncilundertakeasurveyofoutoftownshoppersandtherearemanyinRevelstoke,as
weknowtoaskthema)howoftentheystopinthetowncentresoftheplacestheydrivetotoaccessbig
box/stripmallchainstoresb)howmuchmoneytheyspendinlocallyownedandoperatedbusinessinthose
locationsc)howmanylocallyownedandoperatedbusinesstheyvisitinthecourseoftheirstopsatchain
storetypeshoppingdevelopmentsandd)whatactivities,andhowfrequentlydotheyengageinthem,besides
shoppinginthechainandbigboxstores,inthetownstheytraveltoforshopping.Asurveysuchatthismight
helpopensomeeyesthatwhenbigbox/stripmall/chainstoresareaddedtotheoutskirtsoredgesoftowns
likeRevelstoke,theinevitableresultiseconomicstagnationforlocalsmallbusinesses,wherepeoplemight
havegoneintheabsenceofthebigbox/stripmallstores.
Ifeelthatsuchdevelopmentsmayopenthedoortoaninevitablestringofbigbox/chainbusinessesthatwill
turnRevelstokeintonothingmorethanapitstoptograbsomethingconvenient,andcontinuedownthe
highway.ThisawfulimageofthefutureRevelstokemakesmeshudderatthelossofcharacterandbeautyand
vitalityinthedowntowncorethatitimplies.Andwithapologiesformybluntness,theideathatplacingnice
photosandvideosandatourismboothofwhatRevelstoke*really*hastoofferintheproposedstripmall
mightmitigatethenegativeimpactsofkeepingtouristtrafficonthehighway,anddrawpeopleintotown,is
absolutelylaughable.It'sthrowingconcernedresidentsandbusinessownersabone,andnothingmore.
Iknowweallwantmoreaffordablegroceriesandgeneralconsumergoods,butIdon'tbelievethisistheway
togoaboutit.IwouldarguethatwithMountainGoodness,andaproposednewbulktypestoreintheworks(
bothlocallyownedandoperated)weareheadedinthedirectionofmoreaffordablefoodcosts,already.More
ofthesesmallbusinesseschallengingthecurrentgrocerystorespricingpolicieswilleventuallyforcethemto
recalibratetheirprices.Weneedtogetcreativeandeducateand/orpressureexistinggroceryandgas
supplierstoplayalessgreedyroleinthelocaleconomy,nottrytopricethemoutbybuildingstripmallsthat
willonlyendupclosingdownexistingbusinessesbeyondjustthecurrentgrocerystoresetc,andleaveour
downtownanythingbutrevitalized.
Please...inconsideringthisproposal,let'sgetoutofthinkinginabox,especiallyabig,uglyconglomerationof
boxescalledastripmall,andfindamorecreative,progressivesolutiontobuildingasustainableeconomythat
fitsthecharacterofRevelstokeandsupportsalocalthrivingeconomy.Wereallydon'tneedtotravelthesame
stagnant,blandroadthatsomanysmalltownsacrossCanadahavegonedown,manyofwhicharestuckina
futileattempttodrawpeople,businesses,andconsumersbackintothedowntowncore.
Respectfully,
KarenSchneidwer
1

Subject:

Proposed Shopping Centre Development

From: Janis Borden [mailto:janisborden@yahoo.com]

Sent: Monday, September 28, 2015 11:56 AM
To: admin
Subject: Proposed Shopping Centre Development

I going to be unable to attend the public hearing tomorrow for the proposed shopping centre
development; however, I would like to comment that I am completely in favor of this development. I
feel the added jobs and tax benefits to the city far outweigh any negatives surrounding this
development. We desperately need competition in this town; our grocery prices alone are forcing
shoppers out of town. Sometimes we need to accept change and allow growth to happen.
Best regards,
Janis Borden

September 22, 2015

City of Revelstoke Councilors
Revelstoke Chamber of Commerce
Re: Bylaw amendment for retail development on Trans Canada Highway
Revelstoke is a beautiful and unique city that is different from anywhere else on
the planet. Why does everyone LOVE It here? Because we are surrounded by
Beauty! We have a vibrant downtown and distinct neighbourhoods with residents
that know we won the lottery when it comes to places to live.
People love coming here because it has a downtown and neighbourhoods that
are evolving and drawing people to them; a good example is the inner-city
triangle of Woolsey Creek, Alpine Village, Ray's butcher shop, La Baguette, and
Le Marche.
We are not in support of the bylaw amendment for the strip mall. Adding
duplicate retail businesses on the highway after more than 25 years and millions
of dollars trying to draw people into Revelstokes Downtown is counterproductive. Why would we water down our brand in that manner?
We should spend our money making it easier for people to get to Downtown
instead of making it easy for them to stay away. We should also continue to
focus on enhancing Revelstoke for the living enjoyment of the residents,
businesses and visitors. Our downtown connects our unique neighbourhoods
and our community.
When we started the Modern in 2005, 5 retail spaces were empty on our block
alone. It took some time to fill those spaces, and we remember hearing that there
was no reason to come downtown anymore. We need all of our businesses to
thrive and survive, but especially, we need our downtown to be vibrant with all
kinds of things, not just business. Empty storefronts are not good for town
morale. Change is good, but having a strip mall on the highway is not a positive
change for Revelstoke.
Diversity and competition is healthy for the business environment, and there are
many empty buildings and vacant lots available for additional businesses
that want to come downtown. Is there anything about the Golden strip that
entices travellers downtown? What about having a Starbucks on the highway is
going to draw visitors into Revelstoke?

Chipping away at the small margins that small Business Owners already operate
under may make the difference between keeping the business alive and thriving,
and generating enough income to make it all worth it versus reducing hours,
product, presence, or ultimately closing the doors or selling. We are so lucky to
have the diversity of quality businesses that are run by committed and energetic
owners. We recognize that Revelstoke needs to be open for business, and
generating more jobs and tax base for the city is necessary, however, we believe
that continuing the vision of a vibrant and sustainable Revelstoke far outweighs
the possible benefits of a strip mall on the highway.
Running a business in Revelstoke is amazing, but adding to the challenges of
staffing, training, slow seasons and weather by adding duplicate businesses on
the highway feels like a let down for everyone who has invested time and money
and their lives making Revelstoke great.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Josee and Kevan
The Modern Bakeshop & Cafe

September 29, 2015

Report to Council Highway Bylaw Amendment

Background
The Chamber invited its members, over a period of 6 weeks, to weekly meetings
to discuss the requested bylaw amendment to include grocery, pharmacy and
health & wellness to the current zoning of the proposed property, and to
complete a short survey. We had approximately 50 members attend the sessions
and provide input and comments, and 36 survey responses. Our board and staff
strive to fairly represent the values and opinions of membership.

Current Highway Commercial C4 zoning is defined as:

This District provides for the orderly development of accommodation for transient
motorists in proper relationship to thoroughfares and surrounding areas. Uses
Permitted motels, motor hotels and hotels; Cafes, Coffee shops and restaurants
(including drive ins restaurants; Car washing establishments, Gasoline service
stations Public and private facilities designed to promote the public interest and
distribute information about the community, including the retail sale of souvenirs
and items of interest to the travelling public; Local convenience stores. The gross
floor area of individual retail stores shall not exceed 250 square meters (2691
sq.ft.); Public transportation depots; Fruit stands, Campgrounds; One (1) dwelling
unit for the use of the owner, operator or caretaker.
There is a majority, approximately 70%, that are of the opinion the current
property zoning is reflective of other highway commercial properties (C4) and
that the use should continue to restrict new development to accommodation for
transient motorists to what meets the basic needs of the traveling public. This
largely represents the view that broadening the zoning to include grocery and
pharmacy anchor stores will draw away from the City Core.

Overview
1. There is a majority opinion to keep the existing bylaws in order to continue
to build on, and attract highway traffic to our vibrant, historic downtown.
2. However, there is a strong sentiment to grow Revelstoke through new
development, increase the commercial property tax base and be open for
business, without constraints.

Key Re-Zoning Opposition Comments*

Grocery and pharmacy are community anchors and are essential to a
vibrant downtown; they are not highway commercial related.
Why would this property get a preferential zoning over the current
properties in a C4 zoning?.
Acceptance of this development simply for the sake of development is not

Revelstoke Chamber of Commerce www.revelstokechamber.com

301 W Victoria Road executive@revelstokechamber.com 250.837.5345

September 29, 2015

necessarily beneficial to Revelstoke and would be counter to the objective
outlined in the ISCP of a vibrant downtown*.
Currently, in the peak seasons, we do not have enough hotel rooms*.

Key Re-Zoning Advantages*

New commercial property tax revenue. (Estimated by Revelstoke Crossing
Development to be $500K/year)
New local jobs, trades and retail.
Let's create a renewed message that Revelstoke is Open for Business!
Incremental business from highway traffic, to mall tenants, that may not
have otherwise stopped.

What will the effect be to the downtown core?

Depending on the downtown business, it is estimated that a 15 30% loss of
revenue can be expected. This is cited as traffic off the highway, much of which
is same-day visitors that are looking for alternatives to fast food and require
goods and services not currently available through the C4 zoning. Depending on
the business sector, short term, predatory pricing was a big concern. The
majority of business owners were extremely concerned about their future
livelihood.

What is the long-term goal of our community?

Tourism is fast becoming a key industry and we are a boutique community,
referred to as an authentic mountain town. Many young entrepreneurs and
families have relocated to Revelstoke because of the growth in tourism and the
entrepreneurial opportunities brought by a high traffic tourism centre. Model
towns like Banff are successful - they have an abundance of accommodation and
no big box stores.
In closing, the following, combined comments from leaders in our community
reflects the overall consensus throughout the consultation process:
I am supportive of new development and (as a community) we cannot always
dictate details. In this case we can control macros. The current C4 zoning is
applicable to all other lots on the highway, and may well have been put into place
many years ago to maintain the anchor businesses of a community and the
downtown core. Revelstoke is at a population density that does not warrant too
many duplicate services. A strategy to consider might be to determine what
businesses would accentuate the town and then go out and find them. This is a
tough decision and council must think hard about what is best for our community
See addtitional key comments in Appendix A

Revelstoke Chamber of Commerce www.revelstokechamber.com

301 W Victoria Road executive@revelstokechamber.com 250.837.5345

September 29, 2015

Appendix A
Other Key Concerns
Retail Space Capacity and Staffing
60,000 sq of new, duplicate, retail space is excessive.
Retailers are challenged in recruiting and retaining a local workforce due
to an abundance of low-end jobs and limited availability of local affordable
housing and rental options.
Excerpt from a member letter to chamber and council:
We are not in support of the bylaw amendment for the strip mall. Adding
duplicate retail businesses on the highway after more than 25 years and millions
of dollars trying to draw people into Revelstokes Downtown is counterproductive.
We need our downtown to be vibrant with all kinds of things, not just
business.
Currently there is empty retail space downtown. Additional vacancies
would not leave us in good shape.
What will be travellers first exposure? Will we be the same as the last
stop?
We are a cool town. I am Pro development, but lets not let this be a run
away. It's ok to say no.
This is the wrong project and we should develop Arrow Heights and
increase the population first.
We will lose RV traffic to the mall and will see less tourists downtown.
New businesses want to sell their products and will not refer anyone to
downtown.
We have a problem at the intersection - why would we accentuate it?
This is not town planning, this is planning by default. We need to
determine the best uses for these sites and seek out the best companies
or developers to put it together.
We are the moral compass of this community - this is not right project, or
the right size for our population, at this time.
What are the other options for new hotels?*
RMR has property for hotels. We need to respect that the master resort
plan is to build more rooms.
More hotel rooms will bring more overnight stays and revenue to the
community as a whole.
*Chamber Note: Hotels are roughly estimated at a current 62- 70% annual
occupancy rate. A standard in the hotel industry is to look at adding inventory
when occupancy gets close to the 70% level, depending on the seasonality of the
market. There are several sites currently zoned for hotels within the city
including; RMR, downtown (behind city hall), a remaining 2.2 acres at proposed
property, and in and around the current hotels North of highway #1 & Laforme.

Revelstoke Chamber of Commerce www.revelstokechamber.com

301 W Victoria Road executive@revelstokechamber.com 250.837.5345


September 29, 2015

Excerpt from the ISCP, 2012 document:
Compact & Connected Community
Integrating strategy - Maintain a compact community, defined by a vibrant
downtown and mixed use neighbourhoods, supporting diverse mobility choices
including safe, convenient and active options for all residents.
78% of local residents indicated in a retail survey in 2006 that they shop out of
town once per month or more. Reasons given were: items not available in town,
price, selection, and part of a trip away.

Key Oppositions - Zoning Specific Comments

The current owner had the property zoned for Hotel, prior to that it was
Highways. Re-zoning should reflect the current zoning of the area.
The demographic shift brought on by the Resort has eroded the heavy
pharmacy users to retirement in the Okanagan and migrated out of
town. New demographics are not the bread and butter pharmacy
customers and there is now a strong reliance on foot traffic. It is estimated
that 15 30 % of the current traffic is same day highway visitors.
Some large chain pharmacies will plan to operate at a loss in new markets
for up to 10 years!
It is a myth that a new large grocery store will shift pricing
More business is good but not at the expense of our local independent
operators.
(I am) Not against new development, however, grocery and pharmacy are
town anchors as well. Malls only have one of each because they know
that there is not enough business for more than one.
Do we know of other communities that have said no?
Chamber Note: It is difficult to compare with other communities as Revelstoke
does not have a catchment area. Several members made reference to the 2008
highway mall development in Squamish. I spoke with the Executive Director of
the Squamish chamber and was advised that recently one of the key businesses
that left downtown in 2008, for tenancy in the highway mall, has returned to
downtown citing high per square footage cost. My colleague in Squamish noted
that council needs to consider smart growth that will work for the community as
a whole

Other Key Advantage Comments

Expand the presence of Revelstoke on the highway.
Increase local retail services and employment opportunities
Why are we concerned about protecting downtown and not other areas,
such as the Industrial park and highway 23?
Competition makes small business thrive.
We do not have the right to stop development.
If we continue to say no to potential developers, they will not consider

Revelstoke Chamber of Commerce www.revelstokechamber.com

301 W Victoria Road executive@revelstokechamber.com 250.837.5345

September 29, 2015

Revelstoke as an option in the future.
We need to be conscious of our reputation as a community to large
developers and opportunities.
We need more critical mass to keep people in town.
Are we afraid of the unknown or do we want to grow?
How much of current traffic do we miss entirely?
Arrow Heights (proposed high density residential) development will not be
successful without jobs.
There is still 2.2 Acres of land available for hotel or other development.
Tims is 10 years old and has brought business to our community.
There has to be options and competition. Currently, our competition is out
of town
The market will decide what is viable. If you read all the studies on how to
compete against big box - service is the key.
When change is fearful we need to adjust our reaction to translate it into
positive action and take advantage of it.

Potential benefits and considerations if the development is

successful
Opportunity for a highway visitor kiosk, digital or other.
A pathway to downtown from the mall would be essential.
Opportunity to highlight other businesses & downtown, I.e. Bike Rental
Opportunity to guide development strategy and accessibility design
New development needs to be planned according to the intersections.
An opportunity to showcase downtown through programs like the
chambers experience video flat screen TVs
New opportunities for local tour operators and visitor services to expand
market reach.

Revelstoke Chamber of Commerce www.revelstokechamber.com

301 W Victoria Road executive@revelstokechamber.com 250.837.5345

Constant Contact Survey Results

Survey Name: Copy of Highway Development Survey
Response Status: Partial & Completed
Filter: None
9/28/2015 10:55 AM PDT

Should Council approve the added uses of grocery, pharmacy and health & wellness as requested by
the developers?
Answer
Yes

0%

Number of
Response(s)
12

Response
Ratio
33.3 %

24

66.6 %

Totals

36

100%

100%

Number of
Response(s)
10

Response
Ratio
27.7 %

26

72.2 %

0.0 %

36

100%

Number of
Response(s)
11

Response
Ratio
30.5 %

100%

No

Highway development is good, no matter what the business or service.

Answer
I agree

0%

I disagree
No Response(s)
Totals

Shopping mall development on the highway would be of economic benefit to Revelstoke.

Answer
Yes

0%

100%

No

20

55.5 %

Undecided

13.8 %

No Response(s)

0.0 %

36

100%

Totals

Page 1

Revelstoke needs more retail space and options, products & services. If yes, please share any specific
ideas that you have for new businesses.
Number of
Response(s)
20

Response
Ratio
55.5 %

11

30.5 %

Undecided

13.8 %

No Response(s)

0.0 %

36

100%

Answer
Yes

0%

100%

No

Totals

Please share any additional comments or suggestions.

15 Response(s)

If a new shopping centre was to go ahead, what would you suggest the developer or businesses could do
to promote our community?
20 Response(s)

Thank you for helping us provide our member's ideas at the Public Open House on Tuesday, September
29th at 3 PM. We also encourage members and the public to send their own letter or e-mail to Council.
Answers
First Name
Last Name
Company Name

Number of Response(s)
33
33
33

Page 2

From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:

Nancy Geismar <ngeismar@telus.net>

Monday, September 28, 2015 7:52 PM
admin
comments on public hearing: shopping centre, Tuesday, Sept. 29

GoodafternoontoMayorandRevelstokeCityCouncil:
IwouldliketostatethatIamopposedtodevelopingashoppingcentrewithnationalchainpharmacy/grocerystoreson
theTransCanadahighway.IunderstandthepressureofwantingtodevelopthetownandbringinbusinessbutIdonot
feelthatthisproposalwillbenefitthetown.
Myreasonsbehindthis:
1. Firstandforemost,Ithinkitwillbeadetrimenttotheexistinggroceryandpharmacybusinessesalreadyin
Revelstoke.Ifpeoplecanshoponthehighway,Idontbelievetheywillcomeintotown.Ifitisanationalchain,then
theirpriceswillprobablybelowerandeventuallyputtheexistingshops/storesoutofbusiness.
2. Weareastrongcommunityandshouldsupportourlocalfamilieswhoworkinandcontributetothiscommunity.
3. OneoftheaspectsofRevelstokethatmakesituniqueisthefactthatwedonthavebigboxstoresorbignational
chains.Somemayseethisasadetriment,buttherearepossiblymorethatseethisasapositiveattribute.Bothlocals
andvisitorstotowncommentontheuniquenessofRevelstoke,andthatisdueinlargeparttothefactthatwedont
havebignationalstoresthatmakeuslooklikeeveryothercommunityontheTransCanadahighway.
TheCityofRevelstokeandChamberofCommercehavedoneagreatjobtobringpeopleintothedowntowncoreand
thebusinesspeopleandentrepreneursofRevelstokehaveworkedhardtocreate,manage,andsustaintheirunique
businesses.Itwouldbeashametounderminethepositiveattributesofthiscitybyallowingbigboxstore/national
chainstodeveloponthehighway.
Thankyouforconsideringthesecomments.
Respectfullyyours,
NancyGeismar
Revelstoke

From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:

Brian Higgins <dharmabumc@gmail.com>

Monday, September 28, 2015 10:22 PM
admin
Proposed TCH Development in Revelstoke

I do not feel a development on the TCH of grocery and pharmacy would take anything away from the very
pretty and quaint downtown core. I think a highway development will mostly siphon off cars from the TCH and
become a convenient shopping area for those in Columbia park. The rest of Revy will continue to shop at
Coopers and Southside and other downtown businesses because they are easily accessible to the majority of
Revelstokians. Noone I know in town "enjoys" going out to the TCH.
Bur more importantly I think we should consider what further strip mall development says about the town.
We've worked very hard to sell the magical qualities of Revelstoke; the lifestyle, the quaint downtown, the
world-class ski resort. We celebrate nature. we celebrate green space and our history. Now comes an
opportunity to back away from the typical urban sprawl/strip mall development that plagues so many towns..
Big shiny stores and a parking lot? Boring. Ugly even.
We have an opportunity to NOT look like the entrance to every other town along the TCH.
How attractive might that be?
Imagine.
Headline:"World Class Resort Town Denies Strip Mall Proposal." What would that say about our values? Our
commitment to our heritage?
Travellers aren't attracted to a place that looks just like home. Imagine how many visitors have discovered the
beauty of Revelstoke precisely because they had to come into town for groceries or the pharmacy?
We should continue to offer the visitor a relatively undeveloped first impression, then, entice them into a
downtown they will remember with fondness.
yours truly
Brian Higgins
Box 504
Revelstoke, BC

From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:

Gary Starling <gstarling@telus.net>

Tuesday, September 29, 2015 8:54 AM
admin
Proposed shopping development

Mayorandcouncil,
Iwouldliketocommentontheproposeddevelopment.Iaminfavorofthisgoingahead.
Ibelievetherearemanycompellingreasonstomoveforwardwiththis.Ithinkitshouldbeviewedasanopportunityfor
businessratherthanfocusingonthenegativeaspects.
Firstoff,therewouldbeatremendousboosttotheCityintaxrevenuewiththisproject.Increasedtaxrevenuewould
protectexistingbusinessfromsubstantialincreasesinthefuture.
Jobs:Therewillbeseveralwellpayingjobsinitiallywiththeconstructionofthisprojectandalsointothefuturewith
longtermlivingwageemployment.Thiscannotbeoverlooked.
Finally,theMayorandseveralofthenewcouncil,ranonaplatformofbeingbusinessfriendlyandpromotingmore
businessandgrowthinthecommunity.Therewheremanycommentsmadebytheelectedcouncillorsandmayorthat
theywouldworkhardtoopenthedoorsandcutredtapefornewbusinessastheyfeltthatthiswasnothappeningfast
enough.Thisisanopportunityforthecurrentmayorandcounciltoprovetothepublicthattheyaresincere.
Ifwedon'tembracegrowthanddevelopmentwearetrulygoingbackwards.
GaryStarling
2193rdStreetEast
RevelstokeBC
SentfrommyiPad

Subject:

Highway Development

From: freespiritrevy@gmail.com [mailto:freespiritrevy@gmail.com] On Behalf Of free spirit

Sent: Tuesday, September 29, 2015 9:28 AM
To: Dean Strachan
Subject: Highway Development

Attention: Dean Strachan, City of Revelstoke Council

As a long time business taxpayer and recently a residential taxpayer, I would like to reply to the Highway
Development proposal. I am not in favor of the amendments being proposed. The last thing the city of
Revelstoke needs is another drug store/London Drugs. The two existing drug stores in Revelstoke would be
affected adversely and in fact if the amendments are approved would result in one of them closing
down. Highwayretail development is not in the best interest for the residents of Revelstoke; what we need is
accommodation and convention space.
Elmer Rorstad,
Owner of Free Spirit Sports

-Free Spirit Sports & Leisure Ltd

203 First St W, Box 2429
Revelstoke BC V0E 2S0
Ph:1-(250)-837-9453
www.freespiritsports.com

Subject:

FW:

From: "George Buhler" <gbuhler@telus.net>

Date: September 28, 2015 at 9:32:45 PM PDT
To: "Mark McKee" <mmckee@revelstoke.ca>
Att; City of Revelstoke Council;
Please accept this e-mail as my response to the public hearing.
I am in favour of adding grocery and pharmacy uses to the comprehensive development zone on the
trans canada highway.
George Buhler

Dawn Levesque
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:

k-pont < k-pont@ hotmail.com >

Tuesday, September 29,2015 L:34 PM

Council
Highway development

I am totally in favor of this type of idea. Contrary to what some people may think it would strengthen our
downtown core. If you have nothing to compete against you don't run the race as hard..
Sent from my Samsung device

Ryan Buhler
416 Taylor St.

Revelstoke, BC
Sept. 29, 2015
City of Revelstoke

Re: Proposed Shopping Centre, Bend Rd.

I support the general concept of a shopping centre on the Bend Rd. property but do not suppoft
the current design. There are three major concerns that I believed should be addressed before

any new developments are considered along the highway corridor, as follows:

'1. Reducing congestion at the intersection of Victoria Road and Highway I

Since most of the proposed businesses and restaurants will appealto local residents and
overnight tourists, a new high use transportation route will be established between the
downtown core and the new development. ln the current design, this route willoverlap with the
current high use transportation route that joins downtown with the Highway 1 access,
woodenhead businesses, and Columbia Park. Stacking these high use routes will only increase
congestion at the intersection.
I suggest that any new major highway development in the Bend Rd area or along the Big Bend
highway that will utilize the upper highway (Bend) intersection should have direct access to the
downtown core that does not use the Victoria Rd highway intersection and the existing train
underpass. This would include a second rail crossing in the form of surface crossing, overpass,
or underpass, or linking Bend Rd. to Farrell Rd.

2.

A second rail crossing should be designed to create direct access to the

downtown core

Above I listed four options for rail crossings that would create a direct route between the Bend
highway intersection and the downtown core. Due to the heavy use of the rail line along that
section of rail and trains regularly sitting there for extended periods of time, I would immediately
eliminate a new surface crossing, or at least make it the least favourable option. Secondly, for
pretty much the same reasons, linking Bend Rd. and Farrell Rd. also wouldn't be an ideal
solution.
The two options to create a proper high-use transportation route are an underpass and an
overpass. I would place an overpass near the end of Bend Rd. and I would place an underpass

adjacent to the Wright St. intersection. The attached appendix contains rough drawings of
where these would be located. Also attached is a photo showing the old rail dump infrastructure
which sets some precedence for an underpass in that location.

3.

Promoting the downtore core and drawing highway traffic downtown

The current design does not allow tourists to get to the downtown core without going back onto
the highway (ignoring lower Bend rd. which is barely passable in the winter). lt is a dead end
which means there will be congestion at the entrance/exit to the highway. Nothing makes
tourists want to get back onto the highway more quickly than local congestion. I believe my
suggestions above clearly show how we can get tourists directly downtown without having to go
back to the highwayMoodenhead congestion.

Thanks for considering these issues. I believe now is our last chance to properly design for the
future of the downtown core and I believe the only option to avoid shifting to a "highway town"
like Golden is to ceate a new transpoiiation 'ouie fi'om ihe uppei-highway inie'seciion to
downtown. Once the highway is completely twinned and divided, we are going to see a
substantial increase in tourist traffic. Will our traffic infrastructure be prepared?
Ryan Buhler

Appendix

Appendix A: Sketch of potentialoverpass location

ore direct
onnection to
intersection

Under a

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Appendix B: sketch for highway underpass

Appendix C: Photo of old rail dump infrastructure on nofth side of tracks adiacent to Wright St.
intersection.

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