While other Metro Vancouver building permit numbers are on the decline, Burnaby may beat its own 2008 record.
So far for 2013, permits have totaled more than $427 million, which is coming close to the last record.
Building permits in 2008 boasted more than $700 million in building permit values by the end of the year.
"Looking at the figures provided by staff it seems (we) may be heading for a record year in development in Burnaby," said Coun. Pietro Calendino at council's July 22 meeting. "We are at $427 million and we're only halfway through the year and with a few other major developments, we might beat the record." Calendino noted it's not just about putting up more highrises, but the density allows the city to provide more amenities for its citizens.
"Some of the major developments will apply for density bonuses, which will allow the council to provide things like more parks, community centre - like the one we just opened (in Edmonds) - and other facilities that we have in the plans.
"Citizens should also realize there are benefits coming through those developments."
However, not all cities across the Lower Mainland area are experiencing the same building boom.
According to the Vancouver Regional Construction Association, the Lower Mainland-Southwest region's total building permits as of this May were down by 25 per cent with $636.6 million this year compared to $851.4 million in May 2012. Total building permit values were six per cent lower in the first five months of this year compared to the same period in 2012.
Non-residential permits dropped the most, from $661 million compared to $1.1 billion last year - a 40 per cent decrease.
But, residential permit values went up with $2 billion as of May this year compared to $1.8 billion in 2012 - a 14 per cent spike.
For more information, visit www.vrca.bc.ca.
