Developers of a mixed-use project in Toronto’s North York district, featuring a 42,000-square-foot Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) store, have received approval from the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) to add a 50-unit stacked townhouse complex to the site and construction is now underway.

Located at at 784 Sheppard Ave., the residential component is a response to the City of Toronto’s desire for greater density on the property. Broccolini Construction will work with MEC to create the Park Towns townhouse development and a separate underground parking garage.

“We are pleased to now have the final approvals in hand,” says Sandy Treagus, MEC Chief Financial Officer. “MEC is all about enabling Canadians to lead healthy active lifestyles. Our stores serve as community hubs, and our intent is to create a mixed-use development that provides lasting value and vitality to the neighbourhood.”

Park Towns will consist of two, three and four-bedroom units with one and two-storey floorplans. The complex and accompanying commercial development are located close to public transit and the 400 series highways.

The townhomes are scheduled for completion in summer 2016 shortly after the grand opening of MEC North York.