The housing project at 1642 Commerce Avenue has been rethought and is scheduled to go before council tomorrow for a development permit.
The subsidized housing project was set to begin construction in December 2017, but after nearby business owners raised some concerns, it was deferred.
The 55-unit housing project at 1642 Commerce Ave is meant to provide rapid, safe, and affordable housing, together with the necessary support services, to individuals who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of homelessness.
Doug Gilchrist from the City of Kelowna told NowMedia that the main concern was the design. Gilchrist said that the community recognizes the need for this type of housing, but wish for a change to the appearance of the project.
“Hopefully it’s in a pleasing form that the community is more supportive of,” Gilchrist told NowMedia in December. “The community out there has told us quite frankly that they’re not opposed to the use, and the location is appropriate.”
BC Housing has made changes to the plan and will be proposing a design that includes a modular form of construction that will be newly assembled on site, rather than trailers relocated from other sites. The proposed landscaping has also been further developed and improved upon.
The development’s primary goal is to provide a temporary (up to seven years) and rapid form of housing that is currently in high demand. BC Housing’s intention is for this facility to operate for a few years while permanent housing projects are developed.
BC Housing has secured a four year lease for the property, with the option to extend for another three years.
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