Inside Metrotown's Tallest Proposed Tower: The 72-Storey McCarthy Plaza

A new proposal has been submitted to the City of Burnaby for a 72-storey tower named McCarthy Plaza, which would become the tallest building in the Metrotown area upon completion. The development is planned for the intersection of Kingsway and Nelson Avenue, directly across from the Metropolis at Metrotown shopping centre.

The proposed tower is set to include 469 residential units, divided into 169 condominiums, 170 market-rate rental apartments, and 130 non-market rental units. The non-market units are intended to provide more affordable housing options, exceeding the city's minimum requirements for such developments.

In addition to residential spaces, the plan features a 12-storey podium that will house over 32,000 square meters of commercial space. This area is expected to accommodate offices, retail stores, and community-oriented services, contributing to the local economy and providing amenities for residents and visitors alike.

The building's design includes a unique diamond-shaped floor plan for the residential units, aiming to create a distinctive architectural presence in the Metrotown skyline. The development also plans for a seven-level underground parking garage with 938 vehicle parking spaces and 1,264 bicycle parking spots, promoting various transportation options.

If approved, McCarthy Plaza will surpass nearby developments in height, including the 65-storey Concord Metrotown project and the 66-storey Citizen tower by Anthem Properties, both currently under construction. This reflects a broader trend of significant growth and densification in the Metrotown area, transforming it into a major urban centre within Burnaby.

The proposal is currently under review by the City of Burnaby. If it progresses through the necessary approval stages, McCarthy Plaza is poised to become a landmark development, offering a mix of housing options and commercial spaces that aim to enhance the vibrancy and livability of the Metrotown neighbourhood.