Saanich's council has approved a long-term growth blueprint for Quadra and McKenzie streets, sparking a heated debate among residents. This controversial plan, which has been three years in the making, aims to guide the development of these areas by focusing on transit-rich corridors and villages, with a focus on managing increased density. The process has been a tumultuous one, with over 17,000 pieces of feedback received, highlighting the diverse opinions of the community. The plan's revisions, which include capping building heights and addressing environmental concerns, have been a point of contention, with some arguing for more ambitious growth and others fearing the impact on single-family neighborhoods and traffic congestion.
Mayor Dean Murdock emphasizes that the plan is a long-term vision, not an immediate transformation. He acknowledges the anxiety it has caused, attributing it to potential misunderstandings and misrepresentations. Murdock highlights the importance of the plan's role in guiding Saanich's development over the next two decades, with a focus on transit-oriented design and responsible growth. However, he also notes that the plan's approval doesn't guarantee immediate changes, as it is a guiding document that will be revised as needed.
Councillor Zac De Vries argues that inaction on housing affordability is a problem, stating that the status quo won't preserve opportunities for those struggling to live in Saanich. He believes that the plan's adoption is a necessary step towards addressing the housing crisis. Conversely, Councillors Nathalie Chambers and Judy Brownoff voted against the plan, with Brownoff expressing concerns about density creeping into single-family neighborhoods and Chambers advocating for more engagement with the Songhees First Nation, particularly regarding the Garry oak ecosystem.
The Songhees First Nation's concerns led to an amendment in the plan, incorporating a commitment to ecosystem restoration and collaboration with Indigenous communities. This move, as Mayor Murdock explains, demonstrates a willingness to address the Songhees' concerns and foster an ongoing relationship. The final adoption of the plan is scheduled for later this summer, marking a significant milestone in Saanich's urban development strategy.
