FORT ST. JAMES – Fort St. James will be getting 36 new rental homes for independent seniors thanks to a combined $8 million investment from various levels of government. Redevelopment of Connexus Fort St. James Seniors Housing is currently underway.
The four-storey building, located at 305 Pineridge Road, will be operated by Connexus Community Resources and will feature 36 one-bedroom units, 25 of which will be affordable for low- and fixed-income seniors. The site is located adjacent to the site of the new Stuart Lake Hospital and within 1.5 km of amenities and shopping. Eight of the units are fully accessible with the remaining being adaptable. The building will have an elevator, a designated scooter parking area, and barrier free or universal design common areas.
“Connexus is thrilled to be part of this new development for older adults. Like many communities, Fort St. James has a growing demand for more affordable housing and this new building will enhance the community and provide critical housing. This truly innovative project, which provides not only more affordable housing, also provides a sense of community and belonging to the community. Through the partnerships with the District of Fort St. James, CMHC and BC Housing we are pleased to see this this new building take shape,” said Tyrell Arnold of Connexus Community Resources.
The project will bring much needed housing options for seniors and allow them the ability to age in place. Construction is expected to be complete in summer 2023.
Funding provided for this project is as follows:
- $3 million from the federal government, through the National Housing Co-Investment Fund (NHCF) and $16,000 in Seed funding
- $4.7 million from the Province of British Columbia, through BC Housing, from the Building BC: Community Housing Fund
- $175,000 from the District of Fort St. James
“On behalf of Mayor and Council of the District of Fort St. James, I am very pleased to see the addition of the new 36-unit, affordable seniors’ building in our community! This new development will significantly lessen the strain on housing in Fort St. James and make it easier for seniors and elders to age in place with the support of their families, friends, and culture. We look forward to welcoming the new residents to the building next year!” said Brooke Eschuk, Economic Development Officer of the District of Fort St. James.
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