Port Alberni has received 16 responses to a request for expressions of interest to develop the 43-acre former Somass division sawmill site or present business ideas that would fit the “transformative” vision for the waterfront site.
Half the responses were from developers keen to take on the entire site, while the rest were from operators and businesses with ideas for a smaller portion.
The city issued the request for expressions of interest in September. The opportunity to respond closed on Friday.
Port Alberni bought five parcels of former industrial land in August 2021 to develop it and add vitality to the city as well as jobs and opportunities. The key piece is the mill and its adjacent parking lot.
Scott Smith, director of development services, said Monday the responses reflect a “pretty strong interest.”
The city plans to evaluate the submissions and brief city council. A request for qualifications is expected to be issued before the end of the year.
Plans call for a public park, seawall, commercial space, light industrial uses and a diversity of housing. The site is expected to function as a meeting place for the community.
