Addressing housing affordability in downtown Chilliwack is at the core of the Paramount project.
That was central to the messaging from Luke Zacharias, Chilliwack Community Services board president, on Wednesday (Feb. 16) at the ground-breaking for a 66-unit building for seniors and young adults.
“The Paramount Project has been a dream of Chilliwack Community Services for many years,” Zacharias told the small crowd gathered to witness the ceremonial kickoff of construction.
The affordable housing project is the largest endeavour undertaken by CCS in its nearly 100-year history.
Once built there will be 66 units of housing over six storeys, 58 for seniors, and 8 for young adults. CCS staff will have offices in the new building on the first two floors.
Operated by Chilliwack Community Services, the Paramount project will be “an innovative, mixed-use” development that will include both residential and commercial spaces.
“This housing project is unique in Chilliwack, and one of only a few in the province to offer a continuum of affordable housing for youth transitioning from the child welfare system,” according to the release Feb. 17.
CCS is committed to the downtown and to being part of “its amazing redevelopment” thanks to City of Chilliwack and CEPCO officials, Zacharias said.
Units will include studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom units, including 13 that are wheelchair-accessible.
Rents are expected to go from $375 for a studio unit to $1,500 for a two-bedroom unit, ranging from deep subsidy to under market rent prices.
The federal government through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, is contributing $7 million in combined Canada Community Housing Initiative and BC Priorities Housing Initiative bilateral agreement grants. The provincial government through BC Housing, is providing $105,500 through the Building BC: Community Housing Fund, and an annual operating subsidy of $391,522. The City of Chilliwack has provided the land for the project and more $1 million in waived fees and development costs. The city also expedited development approvals for the project.
Construction is expected to be completed in winter 2024.
“Too many people in our community, including youth and seniors, don’t have access to the affordable housing they need,” said Chilliwack MLA Dan Coulter. “That’s why our government is working with partners at all levels of government to build safe and affordable homes where youth can have a stable foundation to take the next steps toward adulthood and seniors can stay connected to their community, while living independently.”
Older adults comprise a steadily rising demographic in Chilliwack.
“We know from our Housing Needs of Aging Adults study that seniors are the fastest-growing age group in Chilliwack, and that housing affordability is the most significant factor they face,” said Mayor Ken Popove.
“The Paramount project will be an important part of the housing continuum for youth and seniors with limited income.”
Do you have something to add to this story, or a news tip? Email:
jfeinberg@theprogress.com
@CHWKjourno
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
