[SteelTown]

Speaking to The Spectator, Ward 5 Coun. Russ Powers said based on recent conversations with developers, conceptual plans estimate the mall’s overall footprint will be reduced to around 300,000 square feet from its current size of approximately 511,300 square feet.

The site could see the construction of at least 5,162 residential units over the span of 10 development blocks — with building heights ranging from three storey townhomes along Kenora Avenue to residential towers reaching at least 42 storeys on the southwestern portion of the property.

The plans propose a new public street that would connect Kenora Avenue and Centennial Parkway North and as well as the creation of a small park. There will also be approximately 3,481 new parking spaces.

A timeline for the project remains unknown, but the redevelopment is set to be completed in three phases.

A bulk of the proposed development concept can move through the city’s site plan approvals process, while other portions will require both zoning bylaw and official plan amendments, according to the planning firm.

But, that work likely won’t begin for at least a couple of years, said Powers.

“It’s not going to happen overnight,” said Powers, who estimated the demolition of the portion of the project will get underway in 2024. “It’s going to be slow and progressive.”

https://www.thespec.com/news/hamilto...uare-mall.html