A new 20-unit affordable housing complex for seniors and families had opened its doors in Cranbrook.
B.C. Government officials said the new Victoria Gardens building is a four-storey apartment complex on a BC-Housing-owned lot.
“Families and seniors in Cranbrook will benefit from more affordable housing, right in their community and close to their loved ones, schools and the services they count on,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing. “After decades of under-investment in housing across the province, our government is working with partners and taking action to build homes that make life more affordable for people in rural areas and throughout B.C.”
According to the B.C. government, the province has invested $8-million in the project through the Affordable Rental Housing Program.
The new building replaces an aging one that was reaching the end of its life.
This increases the number of units from 12 to 20 and includes 16 one and two-bedroom apartments for families and seniors, as well as four accessible units for people with disabilities.
“This new apartment building will add much-needed affordable housing units in the city of Cranbrook,” said Mayor Wayne Price. “On behalf of council, I want to thank the Province and BC Housing for their investment in Cranbrook and for their support of our residents.”
The building is located along 21st Avenue South, which the province said is a central location, with grocery stores, parks, schools and health services nearby.
Victoria Gardens will be managed by Canadian Mental Health Association’s (CMHA) Kootenay branch.
“Canadian Mental Health Association for the Kootenays is privileged to be the operator for Victoria Gardens in Cranbrook,” said Carey Fraser, executive director, CMHA for the Kootenays. “The mix of one- and two-bedroom units are safe, affordable and well-located to meet the needs of the community. We take much pride in working with the City of Cranbrook in meeting the housing needs for the people of the city.”
Former tenants were given relocation assistance and housed elsewhere during construction.
Tenants were offered homes in Victoria Gardens at the same pay rate as their original homes.
Residents began moving on on Mar 1.