Overlea Costco targeted for completion by mid-February

Word comes Tuesday morning that contractors on the Overlea Blvd Costco project are awaiting final Notice of Approval Conditions this week which will permit the release of construction permits. Work will then begin in earnest on the store with an ambitious target date for opening of mid-February 2018. As previously reported, the 1965 Coca Cola office building will be incorporated into the Costco. As explained by John McGovern of the Rice Group development firm, Costco stores have a construction schedule of 110 days from the first day of foundation forming to the opening of the store to the public. This store will take a bit longer because of the integration of the former Coca Cola office.

FOUR-YEAR PROCESS

The long four-year road to the start of work has seen vigorous support for Costco from local residents and deep resistance, particularly from the Leaside Property Owners Association. The primary concern has been traffic, but LPOA also raised concerns for small businesses in Thorncliffe Park. Along the way, City Council refused to agree to permit a Costco service station at the site (although that may come later) and referral to the Ontario Municipal Board by two local businesses, Iqbal Halal Foods and Heritage Funeral Centre. These were withdrawn after negotiations. It’s believed that Morguard Investments, owners of the East York Town Centre, is eager for any new business in Thorncliffe Park.