“The City of Nanaimo greatly supports projects that integrate affordable and supportive housing with our existing communities,” mayor says

NANAIMO– Construction is underway for Uplands Walk, a new 33-unit supportive housing development for homeless or at-risk of homelessness individuals in Nanaimo that is being built through a partnership between the B.C. government and the City of Nanaimo.

Funding for this project will be provided by: (1) The B.C. government, who will provide construction financing of approximately $7.3 million and annual operating funding of nearly $996,000; and (2) The City of Nanaimo, who provided the land valued at approximately $307,000 and will waive development-cost charges and site-servicing fees of approximately $229,000.

Once complete, the building at 6025 Uplands Drive in Nanaimo will provide 33 supportive housing apartments for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, and one respite unit. The building includes a common dining space/lounge, a kitchen, common laundry, bike storage and a bed-bug sauna. Two staff members will be onsite at all times. This development will be managed and operated by Pacifica Housing Advisory Association. Construction is expected to be complete by fall 2014.

Comments from political and organizational leaders

“The Province is committed to seeking out new opportunities for progressive and supportive housing solutions for British Columbians who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Uplands Walk is an excellent example of this, providing vulnerable citizens in Nanaimo with the safe, supportive housing they need to begin rebuilding their lives.” (Rich Coleman, Minister of Natural Gas Development and Minister Responsible for Housing)

“Partnerships with government, local municipalities and housing providers create options in our communities for those in need. This partnership with the city and Pacifica Housing on the new Uplands Walk development will give individuals a safe place to call home with on-site supports to help them address their challenges.” (Michelle Stilwell, MLA for Parksville-Qualicum)

“The City of Nanaimo greatly supports projects that integrate affordable and supportive housing with our existing communities. This is why we have provided the land for this project and a number of other social housing developments. We will continue to work with the residences from this community and Pacifica Housing to ensure this development and its tenants are a complement to this neighbourhood.” (Mayor John Ruttan, City of Nanaimo)

“Pacifica Housing has made it our goal to bring this project to fruition by working with the local community to understand their concerns and we will continue to work with them to ensure a smooth integration. Breaking ground today is a milestone achievement and will mean that this site will become home to 33 adults who for many reasons need the opportunity to succeed in life.” (Karyn French, executive director, Pacifica Housing Advisory Association)