The Velocity Program is a new concierge service designed to support development projects with particularly high community benefits and fill critical gaps in the city’s development landscape, such as industrial, commercial, affordable housing, or mixed-use projects. Velocity gives developers clarity on processes and facilitates internal coordination, resulting in a more consistent and streamlined permit approval experience for applicants.
Program Overview
Navigating complex, multi-step approvals for rezoning and development permit applications can be time-consuming and unpredictable. Velocity participants are assigned a senior concierge as a dedicated point of contact and guide in the planning approvals journey. Complemented by ongoing streamlining to the City’s permit application and review processes, along with the Certified Professional program, Velocity drives proactive service, internal coordination, and early issue resolution to help reduce unnecessary delays and streamline development applications. Apply Now.
Program Rollout Timeline
Phase 1 | Jun–Oct 2025 | Free, invite-only program pilot. City to closely monitor program performance and resource requirements.
Phase 2 | Q1 2026 | Expected broader intake of developers and builders to Velocity program.
Velocity Benefits
- Assistance on one or more of key planning approvals: zoning amendments, development permits, subdivision approvals, and variance approvals
- Dedicated concierge and single point of contact with City
- Shared commitment to process clarity and predictability
- Collaborative, multi-departmental application support
- On-going advice and guidance on key regulatory steps
How Are Velocity Participants Determined?
The City is seeking applicants who are prepared to approach their development journey as engaged and committed partners. A collaborative mindset and a willingness to contribute meaningfully are key. While the concierge will provide strategic guidance and coordination, applicants remain responsible for preparing their own reports, technical drawings, and all formal submission materials. The Velocity program supports development projects that advance the City’s strategic growth priorities and contribute to building a vibrant, resilient and future-ready community.
The types of community benefits and outcomes associated with developments that are eligible to leverage the Velocity program include:
Eligible Project Types
The Velocity Program prioritizes development projects that help address critical gaps in Maple Ridge’s evolving urban landscape. Using a criteria-based selection process, current and anticipated development activity are considered to ensure that selected projects align with broader growth patterns and respond to community needs. Eligible project types typically include:
Commercial
Industrial
Mixed Use
High Density Residential in Priority Areas
Affordable and Below-Market Housing
Evaluation Criteria
Each Velocity application is reviewed against a combination of baseline requirements and additional evaluation criteria to determine program suitability. While minimum project thresholds have been developed, acceptance into the program is also guided by the project’s overall potential and impact. Projects are assessed based on a range of factors including:
Suggested Minimum Thresholds by Project Type
Velocity Program applicants should review the below suggested minimum eligibility thresholds:
| Project Type | Minimum Requirements |
|---|---|
| High Density Residential | 100+ units; 124+ units/hectare (50+ units/acre); $25M+ value; located in priority growth areas. |
| Affordable Housing | 10+ affordable units; 30% below market; $10M+ value. |
| Mixed-Use | 50+ residential units; 1,858+ m2 (20,000 sq. ft.) of commercial floor area; $15M+ value. |
| Commercial | 650+ m2 (7,000 sq. ft.) of floor area; $2.5M+ investment; 30+ ongoing jobs. |
| Industrial | 2+ hectares (5+ acres) or equivalent area; $10M+ investment; 50+ construction jobs; 20+ ongoing jobs. |
Velocity Program Fees
There is no fee for participation in Phase 1 of the Velocity Program. This initial phase has been intentionally designed to evaluate service value, demand, and resource needs. Future phases of the program are expected to adopt a fee-for-service model. The structure and scale of those fees will be informed by the findings and operational insights gained during Phase 1.
Apply For The Velocity Program
Ready to help us build a vibrant, resilient, and thriving community? Apply for the Velocity Program to streamline the application process and be part of a bold new future in Maple Ridge. Download our application form and email VelocityDevApprovals@MapleRidge.ca.
