Properties at 295 &297 Loewen Blvd.

Two properties along Loewen Boulevard in Steinbach are in the process of being rezoned so they can be developed into multi-family housing. The large lots are at 295 and 297 Loewen, just east of Maplewood Street,  and currently have small bungalows on them.

City council has given Second Reading to a By-Law to rezone the properties from low density housing to medium density but it could not give final approval this week because of a single letter of objection from two neighbours. That means the matter must go before the Manitoba Municipal Board. Those neighbours fear the development would add to the already busy traffic on Loewen.   

Councillor Cari Penner, who moved approval of Second Reading, says this is a good location for multi-family housing. "Loewen Boulevard is a major thoroughfare in Steinbach so it can handle a little heavier loads. As well, I feel it's compatible with the area. It does have to be developed subject to a development agreement that would make sure it's compatible with the neighbourhood and that it's oriented toward the street in the front and that it will appeal to the public," said Penner.

Deputy Mayor Jac Siemens is also onside with the rezoning but understands the concerns of the objectors. He says, "I think multi-family housing is suitable for the area. We've got multi-family residential there and a church across the street as well as a senior's home and the medical clinic just down the road. I agree with the objectors it is a very busy street and it will only get busier. But this will force us to do a traffic impact study and maybe get some recommendations on how to manage our traffic better."

A date for the Municipal Board hearing has not yet been announced.