[ad_1]
The Township of Woolwich has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the redevelopment of the municipally owned properties at 22 Church Street West and 3 Maple Street which are strategically located in Downtown Elmira. This opportunity seeks to identify an experienced development partner to redevelop the underutilized lands into a vibrant, commercial mixed-use residential building, supportive of both housing and downtown revitalization initiatives.
Situated in Elmira’s downtown core, the subject property is less than 20 minutes north of Kitchener-Waterloo and situated along a transit route. With a Township population of 30,000 which is set to double by 2051, Woolwich will experience significant growth in the decades ahead. With an established downtown and unique culture, the community features a lifestyle where people can play, live and work. Proximity to attractions, including the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market, the West Montrose Covered Bridge, and the Elmira Maple Syrup Festival, creates a welcoming environment for many to call home.
The RFP envisions the development of a commercial mixed-use building, with an eight storey (30 metre) height maximum, fronting on Church Street West and potentially Maple Street. The building should be designed to include active ground-floor commercial or retail space to service the community, as well as support the local economy and pedestrian activity, with a mix of residential units above. Proposals featuring affordable housing, good urban design, and sustainable building techniques will be prioritized.
This redevelopment is a key part of a broader transformation of Elmira’s downtown. The Township is proceeding with plans to redevelop Maple Street into a pedestrian-oriented public realm and event-ready corridor. Meanwhile, the Region of Waterloo is undertaking the redesign of Arthur Street South, with Church Street West improvements expected to come, enhancing the streetscape and public space while supporting increased residential and commercial uses.
With flexible site acquisition options and a minimum purchase price of $2.5 million, the Township is actively working to simplify the development approval process. Furthermore, the Township has created initiatives such as expedited application reviews and dedicated service for proposals containing a minimum of 10% affordable units. Together, these efforts seek to create a development that addresses the community’s housing needs while becoming a commercial anchor to the downtown that creates long-term value for Elmira.
Submissions are due May 23, 2025, and full RFP details are available on Woolwich’s Bids and Tenders website. For ongoing updates on the project, visit Engage Woolwich and follow the page.