Groundbreaking Approval for Skyscrapers in Burnaby: 1,400+ Condos and Record Heights Ahead!

In a monumental decision for Burnaby, city council has officially approved plans for two towering condominium projects adjacent to the bustling Lougheed Town Centre SkyTrain station. These high-rise structures are set to redefine the skyline, with one reaching an impressive 259 meters, marking it as the tallest building west of Ontario!

On September 23, council members greenlit the ambitious development, which will feature an 80-storey tower alongside a 72-storey counterpart. Together, these skyscrapers will house a total of 1,466 market condos, catering to the growing demand for urban living spaces.

Developed by Pinnacle International, the towers will be strategically located at 9850 Austin Road and 9858-9898 Gatineau Place. The ground level will include commercial podiums with a significant 13,304 square feet of retail opportunities and a robust 515,097 square feet dedicated to office space. Currently, the site is occupied by surface parking lots and a residential sales center, signaling a major shift towards vertical living.

A notable aspect of the development is the push for affordable housing. While Burnaby's regulations typically mandate that 20% of units in a project be allocated as below-market rentals, Pinnacle was granted an exception. Instead, they will provide 546 rental units at a nearby site on Carrigan Court, approximately a 10-minute walk away across Lougheed Highway. This alternative site will see the construction of a 354-unit, 33-storey highrise alongside two additional rental towers measuring 23 and 25 storeys, following the demolition of 141 existing rental units.

Current tenants eligible under Burnaby's tenant assistance policies will have the opportunity to relocate to these new rentals while keeping their old rent rates, plus permitted increases, ensuring a safety net for those affected by the transition.

While there were initial concerns regarding the extensive underground parking planned for the project, city staff have reassured residents that the number of parking spaces has been significantly reduced since its first proposal.

Furthermore, there are exciting plans for future expansions of the Pinnacle development. A second and third phase is in the pipeline, promising additional highrise towers and amenities right across the street from the newly approved structures.

This development falls in line with Burnaby's long-term 2016 Lougheed Town Centre master plan, which envisions a 30-year transformation of the area, ultimately introducing about 30 towers throughout the 72-acre community. The vision aims to position the tallest buildings near public transportation as iconic landmarks, symbolizing entry into Burnaby's vibrant core.

This upcoming transformation is poised to usher in a new era for Burnaby, promising not only an increase in housing options but also a blend of commercial space and modern urban living. Stay tuned as this project unfolds, paving the way for a future skyline that dazzles and inspires!