Translink has announced that it plans on partnering with
developer PCI to build a 30 storey rental tower across the street from the Arbutus
Street Broadway Line Station. This would be Translink’s first example of
building its own transit oriented development, which will provide additional income
streams. This model has existed for decades in advanced cities such as Tokyo,
where private and public railways/subway operators connect stations with large
mixed-use developments which typically include department stores, grocery
stores, offices and residences.
PCI is the most experienced transit oriented developer in Metro
Vancouver, with several key projects including: Marine Gateway (Marine Drive Canada
Line Station), Crossroads (Broadway Canada Line Station), and King George Hub
in Surrey. They are also in the process of constructing Vancouver’s tallest
tower outside Downtown above the future Granville Broadway Line Station.
It is believed that the project will include approximately
200 secured rental units, including 20% of units at below market rents. In
addition to retail uses at grade, the project is also likely to include a
cultural center. The project is likely to pursue the maximum allowable density
under the Broadway Plan, which is 10.5 FSR.