31
May
2021
|
16:28 PM
America/Los_Angeles

B.C. to buy new affordable rental homes in Maple Ridge

MAPLE RIDGE - The Province plans to purchase a 66-unit rental home development in Maple Ridge to secure affordable housing options for people with moderate and low incomes.

“We know there’s a need for affordable rental homes in Maple Ridge, which is why the Province is stepping in to secure this property,” said Lisa Beare, MLA for Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows, on behalf of David Eby, Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing. “These 66 rental homes will make a big difference in the community, providing quality, affordable housing options for people with a range of incomes.”

Located at 22325 Saint Anne Ave., the Province will purchase the development for approximately $23.6 million. The sale will be finalized when construction is complete this summer.

Named Turnock Manor, the project includes a four-storey building, which will provide a mix of studio, one- and two-bedroom homes, and a two-unit, fully furbished heritage house. There are also 70 underground parking stalls on site.

“Securing these rental homes is an example of how our government is working to make sure everyone in the community has a secure and affordable place to call their own,” said Bob D’Eith, MLA for Maple Ridge-Mission. “We know there is more work to do, but we are making progress with nearly 350 homes open or underway in Maple Ridge.”

The Government of Canada, through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), is providing $6.6 million as part of the 10-year bilateral agreement under the National Housing Strategy between the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia, which will ensure these new homes stay affordable for people in the community.

“Our government is committed to ensuring that every Canadian has a safe and affordable place to call home,” said Ahmed Hussen, federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and Minister responsible for CMHC. “Long-term, predictable funding for housing has been needed for more than a decade. This project is receiving support through the bilateral agreement under the National Housing Strategy and brings us one step closer to our goal of building strong communities where Canadians can prosper and thrive, now and for the future.”

These new homes will be available to households with annual incomes ranging between approximately $28,400 and $68,600. Monthly rents will vary depending on unit size and tenant income.

Quotes:

Ron McKinnon, MP for Coquitlam-Port Coquitlam –

“Affordable, stable housing is an immediate necessity in Maple Ridge and across the Lower Mainland. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us that we need to respond rapidly to support individuals, families and those most vulnerable in our community. Today's announcement demonstrates what is possible when all levels of government commit to working together. Turnock Manor in Maple Ridge is an excellent example of the National Housing Strategy in action!”

Mike Morden, mayor, City of Maple Ridge –

“Maple Ridge welcomes this important investment. We look forward to collaborating with our senior government partners to expand our local housing continuum, including addressing the urgent need for affordable housing for families and seniors in our community.”

Quick Facts:

  • An independent appraisal of the site was completed in January 2021 and supports the purchase price.
  • The Province is working in partnership to increase the supply of affordable homes in Maple Ridge. Including this new project, there are 347 homes completed or underway.
  • Canada's National Housing Strategy is a 10-year, more than $70-billion plan that will give more Canadians a place to call home – this includes more than $13 billion committed through the 2020 Fall Economic Statement.

Learn More:

A map showing the location of all announced provincially funded housing projects in B.C. is available online: https://www.bchousing.org/homes-for-BC

To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for British Columbians, visit: https://workingforyou.gov.bc.ca/

Contacts:

Ministry of Attorney General and Responsible for Housing
Media Relations
778 678-1572

BC Housing
Media Relations
media@bchousing.org