2 weeks Ago
Photo: Submitted Castlegar's Kootenay Society for Community Living has now completed construction of 13 units of new rental homes for families, seniors, individuals and people living with disabilities in Castlegar. Eagle Estates at 1101 Second St. in Castlegar is ready to welcome its first residents.
Thirteen new rental homes are now available for families, seniors and individuals, including adults with developmental disabilities, in the city with the opening of Eagle Estates. The Kootenay Society for Community Living’s (KSCL) administration and board started with a plan for the housing project 10 years ago. “It seems surreal that it is coming to life to serve individuals, families and others in our community who need affordable housing,” said KSCL executive director Kathleen Elias.
“This project promotes our goals of inclusion, recognizing everyone’s diversities and being part of our Castlegar community.” The KSCL provided approximately $1.1 million in capital and the land for the project.
It features eight one-bedroom apartments on the upper floor, providing affordable housing for individuals with low or moderate incomes. The ground floor is home to a five-bedroom, staffed living space for adults with developmental disabilities. Tenants will have access to full-time, on-site support services funded by Community Living BC.
“Eagle Estates is an incredible example of what happens when community organizations, different levels of government and local leadership work together to meet real needs,” said Maria McFaddin, mayor of Castlegar. “This development brings more than just housing to Castlegar. It brings dignity, opportunity and a sense of belonging to the people who live here.
” The new building is a partnership between the Province (through BC Housing), the Kootenay Society for Community Living (KSCL), the City of Castlegar and Columbia Basin Trust (CBT). KSCL owns and operates the building, which is centrally located in downtown Castlegar, close to parks, medical services and shops. “The opening of these new homes in Castlegar means more people will have the stable foundation they need to thrive,” said Ravi Kahlon, minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, in a statement.
“This development shows what’s possible when we work together to expand access to housing and make our communities stronger, healthier and more inclusive.” The CBT, through the Columbia Basin Affordable Housing Program, developed in partnership with BC Housing, contributed approximately $821,000. The City of Castlegar waived fees totalling approximately $48,000 for the development.
Keep reading Feb. 6 - Projects advancing across region add more options for affordable housing.
