06/23/2026
Last night, Nanaimo City Council approved the Development Permit for 5180 Universal Place, moving the Lost Lake Nanaimo Cohousing project one step closer to reality.
As with many developments considered by Council, questions were raised about parking and traffic impacts. Those are important conversations for every growing community. One aspect that makes cohousing somewhat unique is that residents intentionally share resources and amenities, often reducing the need for every household to own multiple vehicles.
Our community, like many cohousing communities, supports car-sharing programs, encourage walking, cycling and transit use, and provide secure storage and charging for electric bikes. We are looking at shared vehicles such as Modo that can provide access to a car when needed without the expense and parking requirements of full-time ownership. Shared tools, guest spaces, gardens, workshops, and common facilities also reduce duplication and make more efficient use of resources.
Beyond the physical buildings, cohousing is designed to create stronger social connections, reduce isolation, and foster community engagement. Residents often organize shared meals, volunteer projects, educational events, community gardens, and neighbourhood outreach activities that enrich the wider community as well as their own.
Council members also expressed appreciation for the cohousing model and the positive contributions these communities can make to Nanaimo's social fabric.
For anyone interested, I filmed the full council discussion for your viewing pleasure:
https://youtu.be/rZtNWYNSlLE?si=qZSvfjrCiLCp3unq
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