A developer purchasing the Edmonton City Centre shopping mall is considering transforming the property with two 50-storey towers, affordable housing units, a mini-Chinatown, indoor patio, Italian grocery store or food hall, and enhanced security measures. Richie Lam, co-CEO of Westrich Pacific, presented these ideas at the International Chinatown Conference held at the Brighton Block. The company is set to acquire the property, including its office towers and parkades, in November.
Lam expressed confidence in this model’s success, believing that having residents in the mall could be a successful concept elsewhere. The company aims to construct a total of 1,500 housing units, with a portion designated as affordable housing. Additionally, 240 units are planned to be located above the former Hudson’s Bay department store, targeting a younger demographic.
While the initial phase involving the Hudson’s Bay site is expected to proceed smoothly due to existing parking facilities and no excavation needs, subsequent phases will entail demolition and construction. Lam discussed potential security enhancements, such as placing security guards, police officers, metal detectors, and bag scans at all entrances and pedways. These measures are intended to ensure a safe environment for tenants and shoppers.
Lam acknowledged that security plans are still under consideration and subject to change, possibly involving increased surveillance and securing the northwest parkade. The company aims to finalize its plans by December and commence construction early next year. Mayor Andrew Knack and Coun. Anne Stevenson expressed enthusiasm for the residential aspect of the development, emphasizing its potential to enhance safety and activate commercial spaces downtown.