After a meeting this morning (June 23) between city officials, the media and the developers of what will be the tallest building in downtown St. Catharines, the mayor said work could begin as early as next week.

“Demolition is set to start as early as next week,” said Mayor Mat Siscoe, meaning the existing structure at 88 James St., Gord’s Place, will face the wrecking ball within days.

While the outer framework for a nearby 18-storey rental unit building in downtown St. Catharines between Garden Park and Carlisle St. is already built, this is the first word on the construction of the 30-storey condo building at 88 James St. that is being built by Elite Developments.

“This development will be a crucial step in the revitalization of our downtown as Elite Developments contributes much needed intensification that will bring more housing options in our City while bringing life and economic opportunity to our core,” added Siscoe.

“(The residential/commercial development at) 88 James will introduce 236 units to our housing market and will draw more developers to St. Catharines- a new market for those seeking reasonably priced housing and tapping into the trend of remote work.”

Elite Development estimates it will take roughly three years from ground-breaking before residents can move into what will be St. Catharines’ fanciest new digs.

The Burlington developer say the 30-storey building will house suites from 498 square feet up to 777 square feet in size. (An average two-bedroom apartment is 775 square feet in size.)

However, there will also be 6,500 square feet of indoor amenity space, featuring a state-of-the-art fitness facility, yoga room, connectivity lounge, and a party room with a 10,000 square foot rooftop, outdoor space.

Two years ago when the development, which will be next to the St. Catharines Downtown Library, was first being discussed Kim Kopyl, Vice-President of sales and marketing for Elite Developments said their target buyers were young families, young professionals and empty nesters.

“We are inspired about this unique parcel of land, and about the beautiful City of St. Catharine’s. We look forward to supporting the continued economic growth, renewal, and urban revitalization of downtown.” said Kopyl at that time.

Written by Don Redmond

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