People in need of affordable housing in Williams Lake, including those with disabilities, soon will have access to new, safe and secure housing, with construction underway on 39 rental homes.

“We know that the housing crisis is not just a big-city problem. It’s impacting smaller communities like Williams Lake,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “These homes will make life more affordable for people in the community and we will continue to work hard for all British Columbians so that more people can access housing they can afford, in the communities where they live.”

The project is part of government’s commitment to build 114,000 affordable market rental, non-profit, supported social housing and owner-purchase housing through partnerships. The Province is partnering with Williams Lake Association for Community Living to build a five-storey building of much-needed affordable housing at 253 First Avenue North.

Two of the homes will be fully accessible, designed for people with disabilities.

“Over the past few years, we have worked hard with BC Housing, the City of Williams Lake, the Province and our community partners to ensure this much-needed project becomes a reality for people with low- to moderate-incomes and people with disabilities struggling to find affordable housing in our community,” said Ian McLaughlin, executive director of Williams Lake Association for Community Living.

The project is located near the amenities and services of Williams Lake's downtown core.

Monthly rental rates for the studios, as well as one-and two-bedroom units, are projected to range from the provincial shelter rate of $375 to $925.

Construction is expected to be completed by September 2019.

Quick Facts:

• The Province is providing $8 million for the project, which is part of a $208-million investment announced in the 2017 September Budget Update to build 1,700 affordable rental homes throughout B.C.
• Budget 2018 launched the most significant investment in housing affordability in B.C.'s history – more than $7 billion over 10 years.

Learn More:

Read Homes for B.C., government’s 30-point plan to address housing affordability for British Columbians: bcbudget.gov.bc.ca/2018/homesbc/2018_Homes_For_BC.pdf

To find out what the Province is doing to improve housing affordability, visit: news.gov.bc.ca/factsheets/bc-government-addressing-housing-affordability-challenges