As plans for the Riverfront lands, the site of the former Okotoks Bible Camp, begin to take shape, the Town is seeking proposals for occupancy of a building in the northeast corner of the area.
Located at 370068 40 Street East, in Okotoks' river valley, the 2,220-square-foot building sits on a 28.8-acre parcel in Iitopatopa Park bordered by the Sheep River to the south and Riverbend Campground on the east.
Once completed, the park will have picnicking amenities, a skating trail, a disc golf course, access to the river and open space areas. The area is classified as a Natural Areas District under the land use bylaw, which is designed to "protect and enhance natural areas and natural assets throughout the municipality."
This classification allows for various developmental possibilities, but the Town said preference will be given to a business concept that provides for an active and inviting park space and complements the existing concept plan for the site. This could include a cafe, retail space, sporting equipment rentals, recreation services or entertainment. Camping or temporary lodging aren't currently desired uses.
The building includes a kitchen, bathroom, covered porch and sunroom as well as power, natural gas, well water and a septic tank.
Any renovations made by the leaseholder must align with the Okotoks' sustainable design bylaws, including low water-use technologies and climate-friendly technologies that strive for net zero heating and electrical. A 30 per cent water use reduction is a minimum requirement with the implementation of low flow toilets, taps and shower heads, according to the Town.
Building proposals will be evaluated by various criteria, including alignment with the Town's Social Wellness Framework.
Construction of the park's new amenities are expected to begin this year. Once completed, the Town expects the site will play host to various community events.
Expressions of interest will be accepted until Feb. 24.
For further details or to submit a proposal, visit okotoks.ca/your-business/investing-okotoks/public-tenders.
