A redesignation was approved unanimously by Rocky View County (RVC) council at a meeting Oct. 10 that will accommodate a new multi-use commercial space in Bragg Creek.
According to RVC planner Jessica Anderson, the development will be located on a 0.57-acre lot at the northwest junction of River Drive and Balsam Avenue, and is planned to include a restaurant, boutique hotel, micro-brewery with off sales and a coffee roaster.
“Our experience shows a multi-use formula is the best option for a unique and economically viable destination that responds to the needs of the community,” said Baruch Laskin, who is launching Bragg Creek Brewing with his business partners Adam McLane, Kirk Bodnar, and John Jackson.
Council unanimously approved a site-specific amendment to accommodate two uses associated with the development that are not currently supported by the Hamlet Commercial land use district – hotel and brewery. Anderson said that these proposed uses appear to be consistent with the intent of the Bragg Creek Area Structure Plan and the Bragg Creek Revitalization Plan, but potential impacts must be further examined prior to development permit approval.
“Based on the information provided, the proposed brewery would add to the economic viability, character, and diversity of the hamlet,” she said. “A development permit…. would specifically address the permitted operations, landscaping, parking, access, lighting, hours, servicing, stormwater, building design, firefighting and other matters relevant to the proposal.”
The entrepreneurs held an open house in the spring to give area residents the opportunity to find out more about the proposed development, where Laskin said the need for additional accommodation within Bragg Creek was “strongly reinforced.” Some residents, however, raised concerns about the potential impacts of the proposed large number of uses on a small piece of land.
“As a business, it is great,” said Bragg Creek resident Joni Peperkorn, who spoke in opposition to the application at the public hearing. “But it has a huge impact on the residences in the hamlet.”
Still, the application saw more letters in support than in opposition. According to Laskin, support and participation from the community are vital to help get the project off the ground – a project he said would bring significant benefits to the hamlet.
“Locals and tourists alike see Bragg Creek as a vibrant outdoor community, with a rich history and an emerging social, arts, and culinary scene,” he said.
“We see the potential for Bragg Creek to become a world-class mountain destination – and we’re excited to be a part of this burgeoning community, to provide an inspiring gathering place for families, residents, and visitors.”
