The City of Trail revealed early Tuesday that the municipality has taken ownership of the old Liquidation World building on the corner of Cedar Street and Spokane Street in the downtown core.
The city says the acquisition of the large property located at 900 Spokane St., was through a donation of the land and building from Amed Naqvi, the previous owner.
“This is an exciting and transformative opportunity for our community,” said Colin McClure, City of Trail’s chief administrator.
“The potential for much-needed housing aligns with our vision for sustainable growth and development, making Trail an even better place to live, work, and invest.”
The first step will be to work on a detailed plan to demolish the deteriorating building and prepare the site for future development.
Planning and demolition will be funded using part of the $3 million provincial Growing Communities Fund grant the city received last year.
The city said it is exploring funding opportunities at all levels of government, as well as through other non-profit and for-profit entities, to support the undertaking.
Upstairs tenants Pride Gym and Performance Fitness, both significant contributors to the sports and recreation community, are familiar with the challenges of maintaining the aging structure. The city said it has been in contact with them in an effort to work toward a smooth transition.
“During the past year council has had several conversations about what direction to go with this space,” said Colleen Jones, Trail mayor. “Our goal is to continue the revitalization of Trail’s downtown core. At this time, the primary focus is more housing, but I am very excited to consider the range of opportunities for this space with the community.”
Known as the Towne Square Mall, and most recently as Liquidation World, the building has fallen into disrepair over the years.
Read more: Vacant downtown Trail building an eyesore for Spokane Street merchants
Read more: Weights idle, ring empty; Trail gym owners locked out of their businesses
The collaborative effort between the city and Naqvi has led to a promising plan to revitalize this key location in downtown Trail.
The renewal of the Official Community Plan (OCP) and the introduction of a new Zoning Bylaw will guide future development of the site whether it be residential, commercial, or a mix of both.
The city says community engagement will play a crucial role in these decisions, including discussions on building heights and downtown opportunities.
Additionally, a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design study is underway, overseen by the Downtown Trail Improvement Committee, which will guide the project planning.
Recognizing the strong heritage values of Trail, the decision to demolish the building was made after thorough research and careful consideration of the history of occupants and modifications to 900 Spokane St.
From original construction in 1916 for the Trail Mercantile Co. Ltd., through expansions and stucco, to its 1954 Eaton’s opening, and the change to Towne Square Mall in 1982, this corner property has long been a highly visible place in the core of Trail.
The City of Trail said it extends its gratitude to all parties involved in this transformative project and looks forward to a vibrant and sustainable future for the community.
At the far end of the block is the long-vacant former C.S. Williams Clinic building.
Read more: Trail takes ownership of a downtown eyesore
The city took ownership of this rundown property in 2017 following a four-year legal course of action related to delinquent property taxes.
The city’s cost was $9,200, the amount of property taxes that went unpaid in 2013, 2014, 2015.
