The Province, through BC Housing, is looking at options to revitalize an aging housing complex in East Vancouver.
Located along three blocks at 2298 Cassiar St., Skeena Terrace has been identified as a key candidate for redevelopment due to its aging buildings and infrastructure, which require extensive and ongoing repairs to ensure continued safety and livability for tenants.
“Our goal is to create modern and affordable homes for the current residents at Skeena Terrace and future generations,” said David Eby, Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing. “Redeveloping properties is one of the ways we’re delivering new, safe and affordable homes for people with a range of incomes in Vancouver and throughout the province.”
The site is operated by BC Housing. It was opened in the 1960s and is among Vancouver’s original directly managed social housing sites. There are approximately 600 residents living in the 232 units at Skeena Terrace, including a mix of low-income seniors, families and people with disabilities.
“We know that Skeena Terrace is a vital part of the community, providing hundreds of affordable homes for families and seniors,” said Niki Sharma, MLA for Vancouver-Hastings. “I look forward to seeing how we can transform this development, so that people will continue to have a safe and secure place to call home for years to come.”
The planning process is in the early stages. As such, there are no plans to relocate Skeena Terrace tenants at this time.
If the redevelopment project is approved, tenants will be supported to stay in their units, as much as possible, until the new homes are completed. Upon completion, existing tenants will be given first choice of new units, with no change in rent, unless their income or household size has changed in the interim.
A complete engagement process will be communicated to tenants, neighbouring residents and key stakeholders, and is expected to begin in the coming weeks. During the engagement process, tenants will have the opportunity to help shape development plans for the property.
Learn More:
For more information about the proposed redevelopment of Skeena Terrace, visit: https://www.bchousing.org/vancouver-skeena-terrace