Terrace’s proposed inland port project is one step closer to construction after council gave unanimous third readings to zoning bylaws after two concurrent public hearings held virtually on June 14, 2021.
On the agenda were two zoning amendments designed to accommodate Progressive Ventures’ potential transload facility, while limiting what kinds of goods and activities can move through, and happen on the site along Keith Ave. in the industrial section of the city.
The new M2A zone combines some elements of existing M1 and M2 zones, limiting use to logistics, trucking and transport, warehouse and others. The M2 zone includes several heavy industrial uses that are not required by the facility like heavy manufacturing, so city staff decided it was not appropriate for the site and instead combined elements of light and heavy industrial into the new M2A zone.
The second element is the rezoning application for portions of 4800 Keith Ave. and 4760 Keith Ave. to the new M2A zone. The city now needs the approval of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure because the rezoning is within 800 metres of a provincial highway.
The inland port project is a proposed development that would see a train container loading facility built on the northern portion of the former Skeena Cellulose sawmill site in Terrace (just west of the Sande Overpass) and allow for a row of commercial or light industrial properties along Keith Ave. at the southern edge of the former mill site.
Should the new zone and bylaw amendment be approved by the province, Progressive Ventures will still need to obtain development and building permits from the city as well as various provincial permits before construction can begin.
According to Progressive Ventures, the company will now continue commercial discussions with stakeholders and will also seek sub-division and development permits from the city.
Council voted to amend the Official Community Plan for the project to move forward during a special council meeting the morning of Jan. 15, following virtual public hearing on Jan. 14 that lasted nearly four hours and saw over 50 members of the community providing their feedback about the project.
The entire June 14 public hearing is available to view on the City of Terrace website and Facebook page. Watch the highlights below:
READ MORE: Terrace city council approves inland port OCP amendments
