Cochrane Dodge has decided to stay in downtown Cochrane.

Owner Alex Baum had planned to move the dealership down south on Highway 22 to sit beside the Toyota dealership currently under construction.

But after running into challenges subdividing the land, the dealership is staying on Fifth Avenue.

“It’s the right place to be for the moment,” said Baum.

Baum said he has seen first hand the town having to deal with a rapidly growing community.

“They are working as hard as they can,” he said. “No matter who is at the town, they are coming into a challenging time.”

He said as a businessman and developer it is hard not to want things to happen quickly, but since the town is being challenged by the taxpayers to plan properly he can see why the process can take a little longer.

“Somewhere in the middle is the answer,” said Baum, adding developers need to slow down and the bureaucratic process needs to speed up.
He said delays can be costly.

Mike Saley, director of planning and engineering for the town, said the land in question had been pulled out of the area structure plan (ASP) years ago, but they still have to worry about how the development would link into that ASP for roads, sewers, and servicing.

He said it doesn’t matter who the developer is, they are just following proper procedure.

“There are new planning policies, such as the sustainability plan, that look at transit-orientated development, walkability and open spaces,” said Saley, adding they have to make sure development plans stand up to current standards.

The planning and engineering department has undergone significant changes lately, and have a number of ASPs on the table.

Currently the town is accepting proposals for the River Heights Area Structure plan, which was undergoing a wetland survey. They are also figuring out what is happening with the TRC Ranch development west of Highway 22 and south of Highway 1A.

Currently the developer, Acera, is selling the 250-acre property as the company undergoes changes.

Saley said he has heard there is interest in the development community to take over the large development.

Also, the Town is working with consultants on initial concept plans for the old town hall site downtown.

“Obviously it is an important piece of property, so we should make sure it is done well,” said Saley.

No related stories.

• Filed under News | Both comments and pings are currently closed.

Comments are closed.