Elkford’s long-anticipated affordable senior housing complex is on the way, with a resident waiting list expected to come late this year.
The building will consist of 25 one-bedroom units, all of which will be accessible or adaptable to adapt to residents’ needs.
“These accessible and adaptable homes will allow seniors and people living with disabilities to live comfortably and independently, close to friends and family,” said Ravi Kahlon, B.C.’s Minister of Housing.
The four-storey building will be at 214 Alpine Way, with easy access to Elkford’s amenities and downtown area.
It will also have ground-mounted solar panels to produce more power.
Mayor Steve Fairbairn said this project will be a welcomed addition to the community.
“It allows seniors to leave their homes and downsize while staying in Elkford. I can see this opening up a number of residential homes that can be occupied by families,” said Fairbairn.
This project has backing from the federal ($12.7 million) and provincial ($2.8 million) governments, the Regional District of East Kootenay ($500,000), the District of Elkford ($200,000), the Columbia Basin Trust ($200,000), Teck ($400,000)and the Elkford Housing Society.
Fairbairn said the affordable housing complex would not have been made into a reality if it did not have the financial support.
“They’re affordable to rent because of the federal and provincial government, Teck Resouces and a little bit from the District of Elkford,” said Fairbairn.
“When we’re relying on taxes to provide affordable housing, that’s masking a larger societal problem of affordability. I’m excited to see this happen because it certainly wouldn’t have happened if it was up to private investment.”
Construction is still underway, but seniors may be able to sign up to be potential residents by the end of this year.
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