A mathematical equation is at the core of Louai Alrifai’s vision for the future of a struggling mall in central Saskatchewan: “700 cars and light trucks weigh around 3,000,000 pounds. Our modules weigh significantly less.”
Alrifai’s company recently acquired the Gateway Mall in Prince Albert, Sask., and unveiled a plan to construct 500 modular housing units on its rooftop, replacing the existing parking lot. This move reflects a nationwide shift towards developing denser residential properties within urban boundaries, as noted by an industry expert.
While instances of integrating new homes into existing malls exist, there is no known precedent of modular housing units being installed on top of one, according to CBC News.
“Given the land’s size, the rooftop approach makes more sense,” remarked Alrifai, who serves as the president and CEO of Alrifai Real Estates.
The proposed one-bedroom units, each approximately 329 square feet in size, are designed for students, young professionals, and healthcare workers. Alrifai anticipates completion by 2027, with a monthly rent of $1,000 inclusive of utilities.
The company’s total investment is expected to reach $50 million, with $40 million allocated for the housing project and an additional $10 million for enhancing the mall’s interior, addressing leakage concerns, and fostering new retail and study spaces.
“I believe the hardworking people of Prince Albert deserve a revitalized downtown,” Alrifai expressed.
To compensate for the lost parking space due to the housing development, additional parking facilities are planned. Greg Dionne, the former mayor of Prince Albert, is advising the firm.
Formal plans are being prepared for submission to the city, with positive feedback received from municipal officials and staff, according to Alrifai.
Michael Nelson, the acting director of community development for Prince Albert, highlighted the city’s housing shortage and expressed openness to innovative housing solutions like Alrifai’s proposal.
Scott Bell, a geography and planning professor at the University of Saskatchewan, commended the unique nature of the project, emphasizing a national trend towards denser urban housing developments supported by federal incentives like the Housing Accelerator Fund.
Alrifai emphasized that the project’s goal extends beyond financial gains, aiming to transform the Gateway Mall into a vibrant downtown hub for Prince Albert.