At the 4/16 public meeting we were given a vision of what’s coming to the north west corner of King Rd and Dufferin; specifically what the look of the commercial subdivision will be. The “look” has been significantly improved from previous proposals. I think King North has truly risen to the challenge to create a gateway inviting to people; the proposed spacious piazza has clear definition/structure but also has flexibility. But I have concerns.
2 drive thru’s are proposed: a bank and fast food. I have written about the process underway to develop a King policy for drive thru’s; unfortunately we don’t have it yet and will need to develop it in parallel. (Perhaps it is not so unfortunate as it will ensure that we “walk the talk.”) You can read my earlier posting here on the topic.
A gas bar and car wash are proposed prominently on King Road. My issue is how this degrades the pedestrian experience as one walks from the King City library, for example, to the proposed piazza. The developer has wisely located the parking area for 700 cars into the centre area so that you don’t see a sea of pavement as you drive (or walk) along King Rd; this is partially negated by the gas bar and car wash.
I support Councillor Mortelliti’s request that they re-assess the landscaping plans to maximize inclusion of trees.
You can read the report here which includes drawings, details on kinds of businesses and layout.
Hi Debbie:
Glad to see that the drive-through issue hasn’t just fallen by the wayside. As you’re aware I find it hard to imagine council approving them when the township is supposedly in the middle of a study about these facilities.
Also, I do take issue with the proposed gas station proposal at the NW corner of Dufferin and King Road; in part because I feel that a gas station on every corner detracts from the efforts made to establish a “gateway” to the Township, and partly a sense of fairness to the Fountain Esso people at the sw corner of the same intersection….. who have been attempting for years to make adjustments/changes/upgrades to their facility (inclusive of a carwash) and who have met with a certain lack of cooperation from township staff.