The Municipality of Bifrost-Riverton will be holding an upcoming public hearing to review a developer’s proposal to build residential rental housing just south of Arborg.
Corey Palsson of Thorwin Properties wants to build residential housing on land west of Arborg’s Main Street (PR 326) between the Icelandic River and Highway 68 to meet a growing demand for long-term rentals that will help support the local economy.
Palsson is asking council to consider re-zoning Lot R47-22-2E from agricultural limited zone to commercial highway zone through proposed Bylaw No. 05-2025, which would amend the RM’s Zoning Bylaw No. 04-2024.
“As is common in smaller communities, there is a significant demand for housing to support local industries,” said Palsson.
Thorwin Properties has provided a number of rental housing units in Riverton over the past several years.
The company constructed an apartment building in 2016 in Riverton with 12 residential suites, plus four commercial suites. All of them have remained fully occupied, said Palsson in Thorwin’s submission. In 2024 the company built 10 more residential units. This year the company will open a new building that will feature eight residential units. To date Thorwin has built a total of 30 residential units and four commercial spaces.
“Recognizing a similar need in the Arborg area, we are eager to extend our service to that community. The proposal for subdividing the land will include potential site plans for the 11-acre property, outlining our vision for the development,” said Palsson. “We firmly believe there is a growing demand in these communities for long-term rental accommodations to support local businesses and contribute to the continued growth and vitality of the area.”
The public hearing will be held on June 12 at 9 a.m. in Municipality of Bifrost-Riverton council chambers at 329 River Road.
