Plans are in place to revitalize the Cowichan Valley community of Paldi, which was the bustling centre of an active logging industry operation many years ago, with a new residential/commercial development.
The overall plan for the Elk Ridge community project, which is envisioned to be a highly unique master planned, semi-rural resort community, is to have 355 residences constructed on 200 acres over a 10-year period, and build out and pre sales for phase-one of the development, which includes 103 dwellings, has begun and is scheduled to be completed by June, 2026.
Three Cowichan-based builders have been chosen to construct the housing units, including Bob Thomson Construction, Alair Homes and RavenStone Construction, a locally owned Quw’utsun indigenous company.
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“We are incredibly excited to partner with some of Cowichan Valley’s finest builders,” says David Salmon, founder and CEO of the Duncan-based Elk Ridge Estates Ltd.
“The project will have something for everyone, including affordable housing.”
Salmon said the project has been planned for nine years, and the response so far has been overwhelming, with the Facebook page for the development receiving more than 1,000 visits shortly after it was set up.
While the builders at Elk Ridge have garnered recognition for custom-home building, each offers a specific niche that in-market buyers are looking for, according to Salmon.
These options, when paired with the Elk Ridge design guidelines, offer a variety of Cowichan west coast inspired architectural styles to choose from.
Buyers can also opt to build a custom or semi-custom home on a cost-plus basis.
As well, Elk Ridge will make exceptions and consider other builders if buyers have their own preferred custom builder.
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The projected average selling price for building lots are from $320,000 to $370,000.
In addition to custom builds, Elk Ridge in later phases of the development will also offer a range of multi-family lots and builds, as well as planned condominium projects.
Future phases will also include a walkable urban village complete with boutique shops and restaurants, a sportsplex, village square park, a resort and Arctic spa, a private medical centre and a private school.
“Cowichan Valley residents have been waiting for the Elk Ridge community project for years,” said Mathew Rothschild, strategic business advisor for the project.
“Now that we are finally at a point where pre sales can begin, the true magnitude of the development needs to be seen in person to be truly appreciated.”
For further information, viewing and inquiries about Elk Ridge, call 250-510-2614 or email centralislandre@gmail.com.