Gateway Mall owner looks to replace rooftop parking with 500 modular homes

The monthly rent would be $1,000 and would include utilities (heat, water and high-speed internet).

(Image Credit: Alrifai Real Estate.)

Last spring’s heavy snowfall resulted in structural issues at the mall and leaking. Alrifai confirmed for paNOW those problems have been addressed, and he believes this project is feasible.

“The rooftop was originally and built for commercial parking so it can hold 700 full-size cars and trucks,” he said, adding the small modular homes will be built to sustain the cold winters western Canadians experience.

The parking spaces on the roof have in the past been used by students attending the First Nations University of Canada. Alrifai said once they get the permits in place, they will be adding 700 additional parking spaces on the east and south sides of the mall.

“We have every intent to keep accommodating the University,” he said.

(Image Credit: Alrifai Real Estate.)

According to a statement provided by Michael Nelson, Acting Director for the Department of Community Development, the City has not received a formal development or building permit application related to the proposed rooftop residential development.

He added the City does have several incentive programs available, including the Downtown Business Incentive Program for eligible projects within the downtown area.

“Any application would be subject to the program requirements and any required City Council approvals. To date, no incentive application has been received for this project.”

Alrifai said he expects to have an application package in place by the end of November. In addition to the housing project, he also indicated plans to finalize a five-acre industrial parcel within the city for a modular home manufacturing facility. This, in turn, would create local employment and training apprenticeships across northern Saskatchewan.

Since purchasing the mall months ago, Alrifai has mentioned other project ideas including the pursuit of a possible Costco outlet.

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell

by Nigel Maxwell

Gateway Mall owner looks to replace rooftop parking with 500 modular homes

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