Al Stober Construction and Mission Group Homes received the green light from City Council to begin development of Kelowna’s newest master planned community, Central Green.

“We’re excited to begin development of Central Green and support the inspired green living it embodies,” says Jonathan Friesen, CEO of Mission Group Enterprises. “Our first homeowners will live park-side in green buildings, where they can make a positive impact on the environment and enjoy a sustainable community where everything’s within reach.”

Central Green will be Kelowna’s first neighbourhood to be certified in Leadership Energy and Environmental Design (LEED-ND) and is designed as pedestrian-oriented community. Each building within the new master-planned community will be built to a LEED standard.

The first of those green buildings will be a four-storey condominium building, entitled Central Green I. The new residences will be built at the park’s edge along the Richer Street, designated as parcel C of the master plan. Mission Group has submitted a development permit application to the City for this first condominium building.

“We’re excited to transform this key location into the new hub of Kelowna,” says Friesen. “The location is close to beaches, shopping, dining, and endless outdoor recreational activities.”

The pedestrian-oriented community is served by rapid bus transit and connected to the City’s existing cycling network. Long term plans call for a pedestrian overpass over Harvey Avenue to connect the site to downtown.

Overall, the master plan calls for two towers developed near Harvey Avenue, surrounded by 4-to-6 storey buildings with a mix of rental housing, offices and commercial spaces. Along Rowcliffe Community Park, Mission Group Homes will develop three condominium homes residences: Central Green I, II and III.

Between 2007 and 2012, the City of Kelowna led a major planning exercise to determine the redevelopment of the former Kelowna Secondary School vacant land parcel.

“Mission Group Homes has worked extensively with the City planning department to ensure the vision for a sustainable community is met — and the goals for affordable housing, LEED certification, 40 per cent parkland and a vibrant community of multi-family homes and small shops,” says Friesen.

Those interested in living in the new community can find out more at newhubofkelowna.com.