Commercial and Light Industrial

Whistler has a well-located and well-established distribution of mixed-use commercial and light industrial centres that are complementary to Whistler’s mountain character and support the diverse needs of the local community and tourism economy. Each of these centres has a distinct role, character and mix of uses that are supported by ongoing monitoring, sub-area planning and community input. Public spaces and unique local businesses contribute to community character and sense of belonging, social interaction and the overall experience of our visitors. High quality mountain design, architecture, landscaping and green building are common in all developments. A balanced supply of commercial and light industrial space supports ongoing optimization, maintenance and reinvestment in existing developments. Developments are connected by transit and the Valley Trail, and other initiatives to reduce automobile trips and encourage walkability have been successfully implemented.

Commercial recreation activities on-mountain, and outside of Whistler’s developed areas, have also been considered as part of the overall commercial offering supported by the resort community. Recognizing the linkages and interdependencies between Whistler’s various commercial and industrial activities, along with the number of jobs, employees and associated employee housing needs, Whistler has been able to able to maintain a comfortable balance and preserve its mountain resort community character.

Whistler has an established hierarchy of mixed-use commercial centres, based on historic development patterns and the evolving needs of the resort community. Commensurate with the buildout of Whistler’s visitor and residential accommodation bed base, and the associated growth in Whistler’s visitation and population, the amount of developed commercial and light industrial space has significantly grown in size, with new locations and major new developments added over the years. These have included the expansion of Whistler Village, the development of Franz’s Trail in Whistler Creek, the expansion of Function Junction, a new convenience commercial centre for the Rainbow neighbourhood and the addition of the Nesters Crossing industrial development. There have also been ongoing expansions and additions to on-mountain facilities for Whistler and Blackcomb mountains.

Overall, the current supply of developable commercial and industrial space is considered largely congruent with commercial demand and the capacity of the tourism economy with strong commercial performance. Over the next five years, new development should be carefully considered, supporting development within existing approved locations and the potential for local convenience commercial to serve the day-to-day needs of the Cheakamus Crossing neighbourhood.

Whistler’s predominant centre is Whistler Village. The master planned Village was strategically located at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains and established as Whistler’s Town Center within Whistler’s first OCP in 1976. The Village North expansion (north of Village Gate Boulevard), developed through the mid-90s, has now been fully integrated as part of the Village including the addition of Whistler Olympic Plaza. The plaza, site of the medals ceremonies and a legacy of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, is a major public destination for a wide array of activities and cultural programming, anchoring the north end of the Village and providing a counterbalance to the mountain’s base area. The Upper Village, separated by Fitzsimmons Creek, is seen as an extension of the Village with enhanced connections and attractions including the Squamish-Lil’wat Cultural Centre and the highly successful Farmer’s Market. With the addition of the Audain Art Museum, and investments in the Cultural Connector, the Skate Park and bike skills area, cultural and recreation activities are being further integrated within Whistler’s core.

As a major asset and destination for the majority of Whistler’s visitors and residents, it is important that Whistler Village continues to evolve and provide a high quality, authentic experience. This requires ongoing collaboration and investment by the municipality and the private sector, and a view to ensuring the Village remains relevant and interesting to the local community.

Whistler Creek, Whistler’s secondary core commercial area, is located at the south base of Whistler Mountain, the original ski base area. This area, situated in a gateway location, has a number of distinct developments that require better integration to create a stronger destination. As a major base area, with adjacent visitor accommodations, this area has not yet achieved a successful offering or vibrancy as an attractive destination. There is significant potential to strengthen this historically important area, with a unique identity and sense of place distinct from Whistler Village. This should be pursued through a focused and coordinated effort, giving consideration to redevelopment and infill housing opportunities within the core commercial area and surrounding neighbourhood. The addition of the Creekside Base as a downhill mountain biking venue will help support year-round activity; other creative programming and unique activities suited to this area should be considered and supported.

Whistler’s other commercial centres are oriented to convenience commercial uses, personal services and food and beverage uses to meet the day-to-day needs of Whistler residents and visitors. Nesters and Rainbow are designated as expanded convenience commercial centres, scaled to serve the broader community and multiple adjacent neighbourhoods. Alpine Market is a local convenience commercial location scaled to meet the needs of the immediate neighbourhood. A new local convenience commercial centre should be considered within the second phase of development of the Cheakamus Crossing neighbourhood, to meet the growing day-to-day needs of this resident neighbourhood and its further expansion.

In addition, on-mountain retail and food and beverage facilities serve Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain visitors. It is important that these facilities provide a high level of guest service and experience, while also complementing the base area commercial developments in Whistler Village and Whistler Creek.

Whistler has two areas designated for service commercial and industrial activities: Function Junction and the Mons area. These areas provide space for essential back-of-house activities that support the needs of the local community and Whistler’s tourism economy.

Function Junction, originally developed as Whistler’s industrial area, has evolved over time into a general business district and is Whistler’s primary location for light industrial, service commercial and retail sales of hardware, household goods and building supplies. The area has continued to evolve incrementally with a broad and interesting mix of businesses that are mainly oriented to serving local businesses and residents, and that are not well-suited to the core commercial areas. Unique manufacturing and servicing activities, many related to skiing and mountain biking, reinforce Whistler’s mountain culture and, along with other unique local businesses, add to the character of Function Junction as a creative district. Function Junction now also has significant indoor recreation activities and employee housing which are further altering the nature and character of uses.

With the evolving nature of uses, the addition of the new First Nations development site, the expansion of the adjacent Cheakamus Crossing neighbourhood and limited remaining development potential, it is important that any further changes in land use or development density be given careful consideration to address further potential impacts on traffic, parking and pedestrian circulation, as well as on the back-of-house space needs of the resort community.

Whistler’s second industrial area is centrally located in the middle of the community in the Mons area, encompassing a number of development sites located in close proximity of each other. These sites include public facilities and infrastructure such as the municipality’s public works yard, the recycling and waste transfer facility, BC Transit and BC Hydro, as well as private developments in the Nesters Crossing subdivision located on the west side of Highway 99, and Mons located on the east side of Highway 99. These sites primarily serve community infrastructure needs that benefit from the central location in the community and larger parcel areas, including heavy equipment, business storage, transportation, distribution, utility and works yards. As some of these uses have transitioned to this location from Function Junction, it is important that the space needs associated with these uses are maintained. Any proposed changes in uses need to be carefully considered and consistent with current uses.

To maintain and reinforce Whistler’s mountain character, Whistler’s industrial areas should be well-landscaped and screened from views along the highway corridor. In some locations, this requires augmentation of existing landscaping. Whistler should also restrict its industrial activities to the two existing locations, carefully managing uses in these locations to protect back-of-house space needs.

With a balanced supply of commercial and industrial space, largely congruent with commercial demand, there are strong occupancies, rents, and commercial performance, supporting new investment and reinvestment in properties and facilities. However, linkages between Whistler’s commercial and industrial activities, the number of jobs and employees, and the need for employee housing, must be recognized and addressed. Many existing businesses are understaffed and not fully operational due to a current shortage of housing, which in turn affects customer service and visitor experience. This needs to be addressed through Whistler’s employee housing initiatives and strategies, to achieve a balance with commercial activity. Understanding the dynamic relationships between new business growth, changes in uses and inter-related land use demands is instrumental in maintaining Whistler’s mountain character and comfortable capacity.

Objective 5.6.1.

Maintain a balanced supply of commercial and industrial space and associated land uses.

5.6.1.1. Policy

Over the next five years, carefully consider any additions of new commercial and industrial space not currently zoned, to support optimization and ongoing success of existing developments.

5.6.1.2. Policy

Support a new local convenience commercial centre within the second phase of development of the Cheakamus Crossing neighbourhood, to meet the growing day-to-day needs of this resident neighbourhood and its further expansion.

5.6.1.3. Policy

Limit industrial and back-of-house land uses to Function Junction and the Mons area.

5.6.1.4. Policy

Seek to maintain space within commercial areas for integrated activities that minimize vehicle trips such as warehousing and wholesaling activities, and distribution centres.

5.6.1.5. Policy

Evaluate any proposed rezoning for additional space or changes in use for consistency with the intended purpose and role of the location, compatibility of the surrounding area, the potential displacement of other essential uses, and potential impacts on the vitality and success of other existing developments.

5.6.1.6. Policy

Do not support further commercial and industrial development with frontage along Highway 99 beyond currently designated developments as shown on Schedule A.

5.6.1.7. Policy

Consider development of on-mountain commercial facilities to meet the needs of mountain guests, benefit the resort economy and complement Whistler’s core commercial areas. Recognize associated back-of-house space needs, employee and housing requirements.

5.6.1.8. Policy

Support planning initiatives to strengthen existing centres and provide for Whistler’s ongoing evolution and associated commercial and industrial space needs.

5.6.1.9. Policy

Recognize and plan for the commercial activities that are located outside of Whistler’s commercial and industrial centres, largely associated with outdoor recreation.

5.6.1.10. Policy

Seek to ensure the community has the capacity to support business operations maintaining a high level of service, including development of an adequate supply of employee housing.

5.6.1.11. Policy

Seek to provide employee housing for a stable workforce in balance with commercial activity through Whistler’s housing initiatives and strategies.

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Objective 5.6.2.

Maintain a high quality of development that reinforces Whistler’s mountain character.

5.6.2.1. Policy

Apply development permit guidelines to achieve high quality urban design, architecture, landscape architecture and green building that reinforce Whistler’s mountain resort character.

5.6.2.2. Policy

Seek to enhance the character and local culture of Whistler’s commercial areas.

5.6.2.3. Policy

Work collaboratively with property owners and the business community to support rejuvenation, reinvestment and the ongoing success of Whistler’s commercial areas.

5.6.2.4. Policy

Encourage all new buildings and renovations to be built with environmentally sustainable methods, standards and technologies including by implementing the BC Energy Step Code and addressing water conservation.

5.6.2.5. Policy

Support provision of adequate space within developments for waste reduction (recycling and composting) operations and services.

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Objective 5.6.3.

Reinforce Whistler Village as Whistler’s Town Centre, functioning as the commercial, cultural, entertainment and social hub of the resort community.

5.6.3.1. Policy

Reinforce and protect Whistler Village as the primary centre for retail, office, service, food and beverage, entertainment, recreation, leisure, institutional, cultural and visitor accommodation uses.

5.6.3.2. Policy

Maintain the ambiance of Whistler Village as a people-friendly, pedestrian-oriented environment.

5.6.3.3. Policy

Seek to reinforce the concept of distinct areas within Whistler Village, supporting a variety of experiences and interesting places, applying principles for successful place-making and working collaboratively to achieve success for each area.

5.6.3.4. Policy

Maintain investments in public spaces, landscaping and programming.

5.6.3.5. Policy

Support initiatives that help to tell the rich story of the history and culture of Lil’wat Nation and Squamish Nation and their relationship to the Whistler region.

5.6.3.6. Policy

Support ongoing investment in the Cultural Connector.

5.6.3.7. Policy

Pursue strategies to support the success of unique local businesses.

5.6.3.8. Policy

Limit retail store sizes in Whistler Village to maintain the mountain village scale and character and provide opportunities for local businesses.

5.6.3.9. Policy

Protect important food and beverage locations, and associated outdoor patio areas, that provide animation and vibrancy in key locations adjacent to public spaces.

5.6.3.10. Policy

Pursue initiatives that reinforce Whistler Village as a place that is relevant to locals and supports a sense of community.

5.6.3.11. Policy

Facilitate use of the Village’s network of squares, plazas and other public spaces for festivals, events and other programming, consistent with the characteristics of each location.

5.6.3.12. Policy

Facilitate the evolution of the retail streetscape to create a visually interesting and dynamic environment reflecting Whistler’s mountain resort character.

5.6.3.13. Policy

Support storefront improvements merchandising and activities that create visual interest and supports unique offerings.

5.6.3.14. Policy

Encourage reinvestment, enhancement and redevelopment of Village properties and public spaces to maintain a high quality built environment that is comfortable, attractive and universally designed.

5.6.3.15. Policy

Support entertainment and recreation activities that are family-oriented.

5.6.3.16. Policy

Provide convenient and well-maintained public washroom facilities.

5.6.3.17. Policy

Work with relevant agencies to maintain a safe and comfortable Village experience.

5.6.3.18. Policy

Manage liquor licensing to support a wide variety of food and beverage offerings and maintain a safe and friendly atmosphere. Work with relevant agencies and stakeholders to reduce negative impacts of liquor-related issues associated with late-night entertainment uses.

5.6.3.19. Policy

Support transportation strategies and investments in the Whistler Village area that reduce automobile traffic and encourage preferred modes of travel.

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Objective 5.6.4.

Integrate the Upper Village as a visitor-oriented extension of the Whistler Village pedestrian experience.

5.6.4.1. Policy

Recognize the Upper Village as a unique extension and a key component of the Whistler Village core commercial sub-area.

5.6.4.2. Policy

Encourage retail, dining, food and beverage, entertainment and service uses specifically serving adjacent visitor accommodation and the Blackcomb base area, while also serving as a broader resort community destination.

5.6.4.3. Policy

Maintain strong pedestrian experiences and connections to Whistler Village, the Squamish-Lil’wat Cultural Centre and adjacent amenities.

5.6.4.4. Policy

Encourage reinvestment in the public spaces and quality of the retail streetscape in this area.

5.6.4.5. Policy

Support programming of public spaces that adds vitality to the experience in this neighbourhood, such as the Whistler Farmer’s Market and the Family Activity Zone.

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Objective 5.6.5.

Strengthen the sense of place and vibrancy of the Whistler Creek core commercial sub-area as a mixed-use destination for visitors and locals, anchored by the Creekside ski base and Whistler Creek neighbourhood area.

5.6.5.1. Policy

Encourage a range of visitor and resident accommodations, restaurants, retail, entertainment, leisure, and convenience goods and services uses.

5.6.5.2. Policy

Seek to better integrate the Whistler Creek sub-area including the Creekside Base, Creekside Village commercial, highway gateway commercial, and Lake Placid Road extension to the Nita Lake Lodge.

5.6.5.3. Policy

Encourage renovation and redevelopment of commercial and multifamily-accommodation properties to enhance the attractiveness, character and experience of this sub-area.

5.6.5.4. Policy

Consider the potential for multi-family infill housing with increased densities in this sub-area and the adjacent neighbourhood.

5.6.5.5. Policy

Investigate the potential for Lake Placid Road to evolve into a commercial and residential mixed-use street.

5.6.5.6. Policy

Encourage programming at the Creekside base to enhance the visitor experience and strengthen Whistler Creek as a resort community destination

5.6.5.7. Policy

Support collaborative planning for the Whistler Creek sub-area.

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Objective 5.6.6.

Strengthen Function Junction as Whistler’s general-purpose business district with a broad mix of uses that are not well-suited to locate in Whistler’s core commercial areas and mainly serve local businesses and residents.

5.6.6.1. Policy

Maintain Function Junction as the primary location for service commercial, light industrial, wholesaling and retail sales of hardware, household goods and building supplies.

5.6.6.2. Policy

Support compatible retail, office, services and indoor recreation uses that primarily serve the needs of Whistler’s residents and businesses and do not duplicate uses that are principally located in Whistler’s core commercial areas.

5.6.6.3. Policy

Monitor the ongoing evolution of Function Junction, including the character and quality of development, trends in uses, development and redevelopment potential, parking and pedestrian and vehicular circulation and user amenities.

5.6.6.4. Policy

Encourage enhancement of the area through renovation, redevelopment and ongoing property maintenance.

5.6.6.5. Policy

Review and seek to simplify zoning designations consistent with intended uses.

5.6.6.6. Policy

Support employee housing in existing approved locations.

5.6.6.7. Policy

Monitor auxiliary residential use to ensure compatibility and safety with co-located light industrial uses.

5.6.6.8. Policy

Encourage creative local businesses that support Whistler’s mountain culture.

5.6.6.9. Policy

Protect, rehabilitate, maintain and augment vegetated buffers to screen Function Junction development from Highway 99.

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Objective 5.6.7.

Maintain centrally located lands in the Mons sub-area for back-of-house, industrial and service commercial uses.

5.6.7.1. Policy

Maintain lands in the Mons sub-area for community infrastructure needs that benefit from the central location in the community and require larger parcel areas, including works yards and utilities, transportation, distribution, heavy equipment and business storage.

5.6.7.2. Policy

Contain the back-of-house and industrial uses within existing locations, comprised of sites for municipal facilities and operations, BC Transit, BC Hydro, the Nesters Crossing subdivision and the original Mons industrial area.

5.6.7.3. Policy

Address non-conforming land uses and development in the original Mons industrial area consistent with historic uses and community needs.

5.6.7.4. Policy

Carefully consider any proposed changes in uses to ensure consistency with existing uses and that essential back-of-house needs of the resort community are not displaced.

5.6.7.5. Policy

Ensure that the appearance and attractiveness of the Mons sub-area is consistent with Whistler’s desired resort community image and character and does not detract from the surrounding area.

5.6.7.6. Policy

Rehabilitate and maintain vegetated buffers to screen developed areas to protect and enhance the visual quality along Highway 99.

5.6.7.7. Policy

Mitigate and manage noise and light disturbances associated with permitted uses to minimize their impact on the surrounding area.

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Objective 5.6.8.

Maintain well-located convenience commercial developments that meet the day-to-day needs of Whistler’s residents and visitors.

5.6.8.1. Policy

Support larger scale convenience commercial uses within Whistler’s core commercial areas that serve both visitors and residents.

5.6.8.2. Policy

Designate Nesters Square and Rainbow as locations for expanded convenience commercial developments scaled to serve a larger market area beyond the immediate neighbourhood.

5.6.8.3. Policy

Designate Alpine Market and Cheakamus Crossing as locations for convenience commercial areas scaled to primarily meet the day-to-day needs of the immediate neighbourhoods.

5.6.8.4. Policy

Ensure that all convenience commercial developments are designed to complement the surrounding neighbourhood and reinforce the resort community character, including considerations related to pedestrian connections, traffic, access and parking, and scale and massing of development.

5.6.8.5. Policy

Allow for limited auxiliary commercial uses associated with visitor accommodation, parks and recreation uses.

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