Introduction
Burlington, Ontario is undergoing a remarkable transformation in 2024, with a flurry of development projects reshaping the city's skyline and urban fabric. This surge in construction activity reflects Burlington's commitment to addressing housing needs, enhancing economic opportunities, and creating diverse, inclusive communities.
From towering mixed-use developments to innovative community facilities, these projects are set to redefine Burlington's landscape. The city is embracing smart growth principles, focusing on transit-oriented development and sustainable design to ensure a livable, thriving future for its residents.
Key initiatives include:
- A massive 49-hectare mixed-use development on King Road
- High-rise residential towers in the downtown core
- New zoning bylaws to streamline development and increase housing options
- Public-private partnerships for community amenities
These projects aim to address Burlington's housing shortage, create job opportunities, and improve quality of life for residents. With careful planning and community engagement, Burlington is poised to become a model for sustainable urban growth in Ontario.
As we delve into each project, we'll explore how these developments will shape Burlington's future, their potential impact on the local economy, and the challenges they may face in implementation.
Massive Mixed-Use Development on King Road
The 1200 King Road project stands out as a game-changer for Burlington's urban landscape. This ambitious development aims to transform a 49-hectare parcel into a thriving mixed-use community, offering a unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.
Project Overview
- 49-hectare site near Aldershot GO station
- Diverse housing options to address local shortages
- Retail spaces, hotel, and community amenities
- • Proposed 5,000-seat arena, potentially hosting OHL or AHL teams
- Focus on sustainable design and active transportation
Current Status
Burlington City Council has unanimously approved continued collaboration with Alinea Properties on the economic vision for this site. The project is in its early stages, with detailed plans expected in the second quarter of 2024.
This development represents a rare opportunity to create a complete community from scratch. By integrating housing, jobs, and amenities, 1200 King Road could become a model for future urban planning in Ontario. The project's emphasis on public-private partnerships and community engagement sets it apart from typical developments, promising a thoughtful approach to city-building that prioritizes long-term benefits for residents.
27-Storey Tower at 2030 Caroline Street
The proposed 27-storey tower at 2030 Caroline Street marks a significant milestone in Burlington's urban evolution. This mixed-use development promises to redefine the city's skyline while addressing crucial housing and parking needs.
Project Details
- 27 storeys reaching 94.55 meters in height
- 302 residential units, including street-level townhouses
- 382 square meters of ground-floor commercial space
- 6-storey above-grade parking structure with a green roof
- 277 vehicle parking spaces and 100 bicycle spots
- 470 square meters of indoor amenities and 657 square meters of outdoor space
The project's innovative design incorporates a three-storey podium and focuses on enhancing the pedestrian experience along Caroline and John streets. The inclusion of two-storey townhomes facing Elizabeth Street adds a touch of traditional charm to this modern development.
Current Status
As of November 2024, the project faces some hurdles. The City of Burlington refused the Official Plan Amendment application on November 5, 2024. The developers, Carriage Gate Homes and Inaria Burlington Inc., now have until November 27, 2024, to appeal this decision. Despite these challenges, the project continues to generate interest due to its potential impact on downtown Burlington's urban landscape.
New Zoning Bylaw Project
Burlington's New Zoning Bylaw Project represents a significant shift in the city's approach to urban planning and development. This initiative aims to modernize and streamline the city's zoning regulations, with a particular focus on addressing housing needs and promoting sustainable growth.
Project Objectives
- Simplify and clarify zoning rules for easier understanding
- Implement modern zoning practices to reflect current urban trends
- Streamline development approvals to accelerate housing projects
- Align zoning regulations with the new Official Plan (2020)
- Support the creation of diverse housing options, including "four units as-of-right"
Current Status
As of December 2024, the project is in its initial phase, with a focus on residential zones. The city has launched a public engagement campaign, including an online survey to gather community input. The first phase aims to address Burlington's housing needs by:
- Implementing the Housing Strategy actions
- Facilitating the creation of additional residential units
- Supporting the Housing Accelerator Fund Action Plan
This innovative approach to zoning reform could potentially serve as a model for other municipalities grappling with housing shortages and outdated regulations. By prioritizing flexibility and community input, Burlington is paving the way for a more responsive and adaptable urban landscape.
Civic Square Renewal
Burlington's Civic Square Renewal project promises to breathe new life into the heart of the city. This ambitious undertaking aims to transform the area surrounding City Hall into a dynamic, accessible public space that fosters community connections and celebrates local culture.
Project Scope
- Revitalization of Civic Square and City Hall's front entrance
- Upgrades to Brant Street and Elgin Street streetscapes
- Installation of a new water feature and enhanced seating options
- Implementation of accessible, barrier-free surfaces
- Integration of public art to reflect Burlington's identity
The project goes beyond mere aesthetics, focusing on creating a versatile space that can host festivals, ceremonies, and everyday gatherings. By prioritizing walkability and pedestrian amenities, the renewed Civic Square will encourage more foot traffic and social interactions in downtown Burlington.
Current Status
As of December 2024, the project has reached several key milestones:
- Final preferred concept design unveiled
- LeuWebb Projects selected as Lead Artists for public art integration
- Detailed design phase underway (July 2024 - March 2025)
- Construction scheduled for June 2025 - June 2026
- Total budget: $7.6 million, funded by federal, provincial, and municipal governments
The project team continues to engage with the community, ensuring the final design reflects the needs and aspirations of Burlington's residents.
Gallery Condos + Lofts
Gallery Condos + Lofts stands as a testament to Burlington's evolving urban landscape, offering a unique blend of modern living and artistic inspiration in the heart of downtown.
Project Features
- 23-storey tower with 161 residential units
- Suite sizes ranging from 600 to 2,200 square feet
- Prices starting from $659,900 to over $2 million
- Ground-floor commercial spaces for essential services
- Rooftop patio with barbecues and outdoor fireplace
- Indoor amenities including a pool, fitness center, and yoga studio
- Multi-purpose room with bar and dining area for entertaining
The development's standout feature is its commitment to showcasing local art throughout the building, creating a living gallery experience for residents.
Construction Progress
As of December 2024, Gallery Condos + Lofts has made significant strides:
- Shoring work completed
- Excavation reached foundation depths on east and north sides
- Construction crane installed
- Foundation forming underway
- Project expected to rise above grade by early 2025
With an anticipated completion date in summer 2025, Gallery Condos + Lofts is set to become a landmark in Burlington's skyline, offering residents a unique blend of urban convenience and artistic living.
BeauSoleil Condo
BeauSoleil Condo stands as a striking addition to Burlington's evolving skyline, offering residents a unique blend of lakefront living and urban convenience.
Development Details
- 29-storey tower with 291 units
- Located at 2069 Lakeshore Road, Burlington
- Suites range from 471 to 791 square feet
- Prices start from $494,990 to over $839,990
- Amenities include a sky club terrace, outdoor pool, and co-working lounge
- Mixed-use development with ground-floor retail and office spaces
The project's standout feature is its commitment to preserving local heritage. Developers plan to temporarily relocate a heritage structure and integrate it into the new building, showcasing a thoughtful approach to urban renewal.
Construction Status
As of December 2024, BeauSoleil Condo has made significant progress:
- Shoring work completed
- Excavation reached foundation depths
- Construction crane installed
- Foundation forming underway
- Project expected to rise above grade by early 2025
With an anticipated completion date in November 2025, BeauSoleil Condo is set to become a landmark in Burlington's waterfront area, offering residents stunning views of Lake Ontario and easy access to downtown amenities.
Waldemar Condo
The Waldemar Condo project promises to bring a fresh perspective to Burlington's evolving skyline, offering a blend of urban living and community-focused design.
Proposed Plans
- 11-storey mixed-use development at 422 Guelph Line
- 170 residential units with diverse floor plans
- Ground floor retail space of 324 square meters
- Second floor office and business centre (122 square meters)
- Two levels of underground parking
- Density of 446 units per hectare
- Direct access to the Ontario Waterfront Trail
The project stands out for its commitment to creating a multi-functional space that caters to both residents and the wider community. By incorporating office and retail spaces, Waldemar Condo aims to foster a lively, walkable neighbourhood.
Current Status
As of December 2024, the Waldemar Condo project has reached several milestones:
- Pre-construction phase underway
- Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) settlement approved
- Revised plans submitted, reducing height from 13 to 11 storeys
- VIP registration open for potential buyers
- Detailed floor plans and pricing yet to be released
The developer, Valour Group, continues to work closely with local authorities to refine the project details, ensuring it aligns with Burlington's urban development goals
Brownfield Redevelopment Incentives
Burlington's Brownfield Redevelopment Incentives program aims to breathe new life into underutilized urban spaces, transforming environmental liabilities into economic assets.
Program Overview
- Focus on employment-generating redevelopment
- Financial incentives to offset remediation costs
- Grants for environmental site assessments (up to $20,000)
- Tax increment grants to reimburse cleanup expenses
- 0% interest loans for remediation (up to $400,000)
- Property tax assistance for up to three years during cleanup
The program stands out for its emphasis on job creation, prioritizing projects that bring employment opportunities to Burlington. This approach not only revitalizes contaminated sites but also stimulates local economic growth.
Implementation Status
- Council endorsed the Brownfield Focus Community Improvement Plan in March 2021
- Adoption of by-laws completed in April 2021
- Budget request planned for Fall 2024
- Pilot program launch anticipated in early 2025
Burlington Economic Development continues to refine the program details, engaging with stakeholders to ensure the incentives effectively address local redevelopment challenges. The city aims to position itself as a leader in sustainable urban renewal, turning brownfields into thriving hubs of economic activity.
Housing Strategy Implementation
Burlington's Housing Strategy, approved in June 2022, serves as a roadmap to address the city's diverse housing needs. The implementation of this strategy marks a significant shift in Burlington's approach to urban development.
Key Actions
- Permitting four units as-of-right on residential lots
- Creating incentives for affordable rental housing
- Establishing a Housing Connections Centre
- Streamlining planning and building approval processes
- Implementing Major Transit Station Areas (MTSAs)
- Developing a Community Planning Permit System (CPPS)
The strategy's unique focus on public-private partnerships and land development sets it apart from traditional housing initiatives.
Progress Update
As of December 2024, Burlington has made substantial progress:
- Secured $21 million from the federal Housing Accelerator Fund
- Committed to building 2,724 new residential units by 2026
- Launched a pilot program for standardized Accessory Residential Units (ARUs)
- Allocated $9.5 million towards ARU development
- Initiated a Community Improvement Plan study
- Proposed a no-parking minimum pilot in specific areas
These efforts demonstrate Burlington's commitment to creating a diverse, affordable housing landscape that meets the needs of its growing population.
Community Improvement Plan Study
Burlington's Community Improvement Plan (CIP) study marks a significant step towards addressing the city's housing challenges and promoting transit-oriented growth.
Study Objectives
- Incentivize creation of new rental and affordable housing options
- Support implementation of Major Transit Station Areas (MTSAs)
- Encourage development of additional residential units
- Explore four units as-of-right and no parking minimum pilot programs
- Align with the City's Housing Strategy and Housing Accelerator Fund initiatives
The study aims to create a comprehensive framework that balances housing needs with sustainable urban development, focusing on areas around transit hubs to create walkable, connected communities.
Current Progress
As of December 2024, the CIP study has made substantial headway:
- Consultant team engaged to lead the study
- Initial stakeholder consultations completed
- Draft incentive programs under review
- Public engagement survey launched on GetInvolvedBurlington.ca
- Preliminary findings presented to City Council
The study's innovative approach includes exploring financial tools like tax increment grants and development charge deferrals to stimulate housing creation. By linking transit-oriented development with affordable housing initiatives, Burlington aims to create a model for sustainable urban growth that other municipalities might emulate.
Conclusion
Burlington's development landscape in 2024 showcases a bold vision for urban transformation. The city's approach goes far beyond typical growth strategies, embracing innovative solutions to address housing needs and create thriving communities.
Key takeaways from Burlington's development initiatives:
- The ambitious 1200 King Road project sets a new standard for mixed-use developments
- High-rise projects like Gallery Condos and BeauSoleil Condo redefine urban living
- The Housing Strategy's 12 recommended actions provide a comprehensive roadmap
- Brownfield redevelopment incentives turn environmental challenges into opportunities
- The Community Improvement Plan study paves the way for transit-oriented growth
Burlington's focus on public-private partnerships, such as the proposed 5,000-seat arena, demonstrates a commitment to creating multifaceted urban spaces. The city's emphasis on streamlining approval processes and implementing innovative zoning practices, like permitting four units as-of-right, shows a proactive approach to increasing housing supply.
As Burlington moves forward, these initiatives promise to create a more inclusive, sustainable, and economically robust city. The coming years will likely see Burlington emerge as a model for smart urban growth in Ontario.
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This blog post has utilized information and resources available on the City of Burlington's official website (www.burlington.ca) to provide accurate and up-to-date details regarding development projects, planning processes, and policies.
