Demolition of York Hotel will Clear the Way for New Development
February 04, 2012
The demolition of the York Hotel has begun. The removal of this building continues the City’s progress in the transformation of downtown, and creates an opportunity for new construction to complement the up-and-coming Boyle Renaissance area.
The City had talked to non-profit groups and developers about using and redeveloping the space or preserving the façade of the building, but it was too expensive. The building is no longer safe to lease out or leave vacant and it does not meet the City’s criteria for historical designation.
“We had hoped to preserve as much of York as possible to anchor this corner of the Boyle Renaissance redevelopment project,” said Gary Klassen, General Manager of the City’s Sustainable Development department. “We’re pleased to announce that the City has preserved some of the original exterior brickwork for incorporation into future development in the area. Now that the site is being cleared for a fresh start, the City is actively seeking potential partners who are interested in developing the land.”
Councillor Jane Batty acknowledged the colourful history of the York Hotel. “In its prime, this building was a community gathering place for generations. Council supports the vision outlined in the Boyle Renaissance plan, and that includes meeting the needs of local residents. We can look forward to the creation of new meeting spaces and facilities that will help bring this community together.”
Remediation work was necessary to properly dispose of hazardous materials in the building. All hazardous abatement work was completed on January 30, 2012. Demolition will commence February 4, 2012 and could be complete by February 6, 2012. Demolition will be followed by site cleanup and grading.
Across the street from the York, construction is underway on Phase I of the City’s Boyle Renaissance redevelopment plan. This includes a new 14,000 square foot Community Centre and 70-stall underground parkade, as well as the YMCA Welcome Village, which will offer 150 affordable housing units. The highly-anticipated Community Centre will include a City-owned community facility operated by the Boyle Street Community League on the main floor of the building, as well as a daycare and family resource centre owned and operated by the YMCA.
Boyle Renaissance is the City of Edmonton’s plan to invest in and renew the area between 95 Street and 96 Street, from 103 A Avenue north to the LRT tracks. Phase I construction represents a $42.2 million investment by the Government of Alberta, City of Edmonton, Edmonton YMCA, and Capital Region Housing Corporation.
This investment in Edmonton’s downtown east side incorporates the ideas of owners, operators, community service organizations and community residents. The City’s Municipal Development Plan, the Quarters Plan and Downtown Plan support Council’s vision for managing growth while creating vibrant and sustainable communities.
The York Hotel is located at 104th Avenue and 96th Street, within the City’s Boyle Renaissance redevelopment area. The York began as the St. Petersburg Hotel in 1913 at this key location near the CN Rail tracks and the adjacent industrial area. The hotel was expanded over the years, serving railway travelers and working men in the area with its hotel and restaurant. The City of Edmonton acquired ownership of the York Hotel after it was permanently closed down in March 2010 due to safety reasons.
For more information:
Mary Ann Debrinski
Housing & Economic Sustainability
Sustainable Development
11th floor, 10250 - 101 Street
Edmonton, AB T5J 3P4
| Title | Director, Urban Renewal |
|---|---|
| Telephone | 780-442-4528 |
| Fax | 780-495-9916 |
| maryann.debrinski@edmonton.ca |
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