Provincial funding of $12 million will bring approximately 80 new affordable homes for low-to moderate-income renters and adults with mental health challenges at a new housing development in Richmond.

Following the September 2016 announcement of a $500-million investment in affordable rental housing, the B.C. government has selected Pathways Clubhouse Society of Richmond to receive the capital funding toward a new housing project in the community.

The development will address an immediate need in Richmond to provide affordable housing options, and will be located at 5491 No. 2 Rd., close to Westminster Highway.

The B.C. government will also provide interim construction financing of $10.4 million towards the project. The City of Richmond is providing approximately $8 million towards the project. This includes approximately $5.8 million in land value and $2.2 million, provided through the City’s Affordable Housing Reserve.

BC Housing will work with the society to fully develop the project plans and ensure the proper rezoning and consultation is considered and confirmed before construction.

Construction is expected to begin in spring 2018, with completion planned for fall 2019.

Quotes:

Linda Reid, MLA for Richmond East –

“Our government recognizes that for Richmond, and for hundreds of communities around the province, caring about people is what helps to strengthen and build thriving communities. The funding that the Province has put towards affordable housing projects such as this and many others, demonstrates our commitment to improving the quality of life for British Columbians in need.”

Teresa Wat, MLA for Richmond Centre –

“Thanks to a balanced budget the government is in a position to address affordable rental housing for families in our province. These units will be available to those in our community who are most in need.”

Malcolm Brodie, mayor, City of Richmond –

“The City of Richmond has a strong history of delivering on its affordable housing strategy. The strategy supports the importance of working with local not-for-profit housing providers as well as other levels of government. Pathways Clubhouse Society has been an essential and respected member of the Richmond community for many years. We look forward to their new capacity, with this project, to assist those in need in our community.”

Dave MacDonald, executive director, Pathways Clubhouse –

“We are very excited about the government’s commitment and support for our new housing project.  This will make an enormous difference in the lives of those living with mental health issues to have access to community, hope and a future that is rich with purpose and respect.”

Quick Facts:

• Since 2001, the Province has invested or committed to a total of $6.3 billion to provide affordable housing supply and access for low income individuals, seniors and families.
• This includes new investment commitments of $920 million to support the acquisition, construction and renovation of almost 5,300 housing units across B.C. over the next few years.
• More than 104,000 B.C. households benefit from a diverse range of provincial housing programs and services.
• Last year, the Province invested more than $16 million to provide subsidized housing and rent supplements for almost 4,000 households in Richmond.
• City of Richmond Council, through its Affordable Housing Strategy, recognizes the importance of ensuring all residents have access to suitable and appropriate housing with the necessary community supports to serve the needs of a diverse population.
  • Since council adopted the strategy in 2007, the city has contributed millions and secured commitments to create over 1,500 affordable housing units in Richmond.
  • Cash contributions for projects are provided through the city’s Affordable Housing Reserve, funded by current and future developer contributions.

Learn More:

To learn more about the Province's actions on housing affordability, visit: http://housingaffordability.gov.bc.ca/

To learn more about the City of Richmond’s Affordable Housing and Social Development strategies, visit: http://richmond.ca/plandev/socialplan/housing.htm?PageMode=HTML