It is a slow process, but then something big happens. VCH is selling most of the Pearson-Dogwood lands to a developer.
Back in September 2014, Vancouver Coastal Health posted a Request for Proposals regarding the Pearson Dogwood Redevelopment. While they had been looking at doing the development themselves, they now looked to developers to see what offers they might get. According to VCH, they received ten proposals – and one offer won over the health authority.
The majority of the land will be sold to the Onni Group of Companies, a Vancouver-based privately owned developer with offices throughout North America. According to VCH, the proceeds from the sale of the Pearson Dogwood Lands will be reinvested into health care infrastructure, including on the site.
In a release dated February 13, 2015, VCH says the Onni Group will purchase two parcels of the Pearson Dogwood lands totalling 22.18 acres – about 87% of the total 25.4-acre land space that currently includes Pearson and Dogwood. The plan is for Onni to develop the lands into a mix of residential, commercial and retail, with green spaces.
VCH will keep 1.3 hectares in the middle (3.2 acres), which is almost 13% of the land it now owns. On this land they plan to build a 150-bed facility to replace Dogwood Lodge. Dogwood is currently located just east of Pearson, on 57th Ave. It is home to seniors, many with dementia and special health needs. Other plans for the VCH-retained lands include building a Community Health Centre, a YMCA and a new therapeutic pool to replace the Stan Stronge Pool.
In a recent news release, VCH states that 114 housing units with supports for those with disabilities will also be included, but dispersed throughout the 25.4 acre site. Since there are currently 114 residents living at Pearson, it likely refers to Pearson residents.
What’s next? VCH and Onni plan to submit a rezoning application to the City of Vancouver in late 2015. The rest remains to be seen.