Demolition clears way for Nelson Commons project to progress

The demolition of the old Extra Foods building in Nelson has taken place.

The Nelson Commons project on the northeast side of downtown Nelson is progressing now that the demolition of the old Extra Foods building has taken place.

The Nelson Commons parking lot is now fenced off as crews work to remove hazardous material, which is mainly asbestos in vermiculite insulation in the cinder blocks, over the next few weeks.

Other work expected to be completed in the near future is the removal of power poles in the alleyway and new transformers being installed for the new building.

The $26 million project of the Kootenay Country Store Cooperative, will include a larger co-op store, 54 residential units, additional commercial spaces, underground and street level parking, and a community green space in a prime location in Nelson’s downtown core.

Construction is slated to begin in the spring of 2015, with both commercial and residential occupancy in the summer of 2016.