Squamish Council has now granted two separate developers similar development variances and the latest variance, granted to the developers of the Thunderbird Creek development, should indicate some of the standards in Squamish are out of step with modern neighbourhood design.
The Sea to Sky University proponents started the trend last year by asking for a variance to allow for less street lighting, less blacktop and drainage systems that rely less on pipes and more on nature's ability to absorb rainwater.
This week, the Thunderbird Creek proponents asked for similar consideration granted to the university developers.
Documentation released by Merrill and Ring (M&R) on its development proposal next to the Thunderbird Creek lands indicates that M&R wants to use the same principals so we can expect M&R to ask for a similar variance.
Following the trend we should expect the new oceanfront development lands and the former Interfor sawmill development proposal to similar development variances.
The desire to have the variances stems mainly from the SmartGrowth concepts we've heard a great deal about in the last few years.
The SmartGrowth concept takes the traditional model for neighbourhood development and offers a more sustainable formula of how to build new neighbourhoods.
At the heart of the change are reduced outdoor lighting, more reliance on natural drainage systems and less reliance on impervious surfaces like blacktop and concrete.
At council's meeting Tuesday (May 24) the elements in the Thunderbird Creek variance proposal were described as new technology and cutting edge but not so much so that the District of Squamish is taking a significant risk by allowing the variance.
There are very real risks.
Changing lighting standards causes safety concerns. With less light in the streets there is a concern that more accidents may happen and people could be at greater risk of being assaulted.
Changing drainage standards causes concern for future potential flooding.
Based on the information presented by developers and groups like SmartGrowth 小蓝视频 seem to indicate the risk is worth taking. The end result is better neighbourhoods that have a lesser impact on Mother Nature.
These concepts aren't just trends so look for them to become policy.
We're growing and we, as a community, need to do all we can to grow smart.
