A developer wants to put a 10-storey apartment building on the former YMCA and current Max Athletics site on New Cove Road in St. John’s.
And while that may be too high for some, at least one councilor says it’s time to get over it.
Sandy Hickman was speaking during a Committee of the Whole meeting yesterday, where the new 10-storey building came up.
In no time, talk turned to the potential for affordable housing, especially involving taller buildings with smaller footprints.
These days, anything related to new builds goes under a housing crisis lens by the city, especially after taking a knock from the feds for not being ambitious enough.
The latest project would see the old YMCA torn down and replaced by the apartment building, and a separate two-storey parking garage.
Developers KMK Capital must submit a land use plan and talk to neighbours as part of the process, with rezoning also required.
Councillor Jamie Korab noted while it’s early in the game, any new housing is a good thing
The project goes before city council for a vote next week.
Meanwhile, current tenants Max Fitness told members three weeks ago this was coming, saying they will be closing December 15 and that relocating was not feasible.
The owner of Max Families, which is located in the same building, will continue to operate. That facility offers children’s camps, parties and after-school programs.