The developers of the Paradise Trails, an equestrian community in Paradise Valley, have announced they have taken a significant step in moving the project forward.
The equestrian-themed 82-unit development will be built on a 160-acre parcel of vacant private land, previously cleared for a golf course, at the end of Paradise Valley Road in the District of Squamish. The developer says it will feature lots ranging in size from .5 to 2 acres, public trails, an upgraded access road, and an equestrian centre available for residents and the local equestrian community.
“This week, we filed a development permit application with the District of Squamish Planning Department. This was a significant moment in the long journey from concept to community. Paradise Trails was a complex proposal and we have worked with Planning Dept. staff for years to conduct studies to ensure it was safe and sustainable,” said Michael Goodman, president of Tri-City Developments Ltd.
Two development permits related to flood protection and environmental sustainability were also submitted to the Squamish Regional District to create a new bare land strata housing development and equestrian recreation centre. “One of the things that made our proposal more challenging is that the property borders on the Cheakamus River. It is also what will make living there very appealing. I’m referring to the flood risk,” Goodman said.
Goodman explained the approach taken towards flood risk assessment: “Unlike the historical District model, Tri-City Developments Ltd. has used the latest 2D modelling techniques and recent LiDAR data to assess flood risks accurately. This modern approach reveals that when developed with a private dike and road improvements, Paradise Trails will be well-protected against a 200-year flood event, with no increased risk to downstream areas.”
The bottom line is that property won’t flood, he emphasized.
“Our analysis, based on the latest modelling technologies and data, gives us a more precise, detailed understanding of flood risks, different from historical District of Squamish studies that relied on the best available tools. While acknowledging these historical efforts, our findings bring a new level of precision and reassurance regarding the safety and sustainability of Paradise Trails,” he said.
Goodman thanked the community for its support. “This project would not be moving ahead without the support of members of the Squamish First Nation and local residents who want the improvements negotiated with the District delivered.”
Bob says
There goes the neighborhood.
Aura says
So any new public buildings in the last dozen years thus far has been forced to build on stilts or elevated above the flood line, but this project is exempt from this? Because they are going to alter a shore line? I don’t understand this completely ? Not trying to be a jerk, but genuinely want to understand this outcome for approval more thoroughly…I wonder how community oriented businesses like Fergies and Cheakamus centre feel about this after jumping through hoops to build their buildings above 15 feet or on wheels?
Brenda says
“Equestrian themed development”?
When a gimmick is needed to convince residents of an 82 unit development in Paradise Valley, we all know it isn’t going to be sustainable or good for those of us who live in the area.
When developers propose any amenities or benefits to local residents, that is usually false bribery. Plenty of developers in Squamish left without the benefits they promised.
I thought the District of Squamish was against urban sprawl!
There is no need to destroy more forests, creeks and natural areas.
Squamish is growing too fast.
I say a strong, loud “NO, thank you!”
Richard Tripp says
Ten or twelve years ago, as I recall, Michael was working on this project.
Haters and NIMBYs accusing developers of being in it for a fast buck have little to no understanding of the cost and pace of bureaucracy or gate-keepers as the case may be.
Heather Bould says
This project has been ongoing since 2012 I believe and if you read through all the documents you will see that they have jumped through many hoops requested by the district. Including hiring engineers to produce a flood study. This is an expensive process and it is not a surprise that housing is so expensive. All the costs incurred by these delays will eventually have to be put on the purchasers. So maybe we should blame the district and not the developer.
Alana Strachan says
This project seems like such a good fit for the Squamish area. And the benefits it would bring in road and bridge upgrades as well as a much needed fire hall are so needed.