New indoor spaces for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness in the Comox Valley will soon be available.
The B.C. government said construction of 70 new homes and 73 shelter beds at 925 and 933 Braidwood Rd. is underway.
Housing and Municipal Affairs Minister Christine Boyle said the project is part of a collaborative effort to provide safe, indoor shelter for people experiencing homelessness in Courtenay and the surrounding area.
“These new supportive homes and purpose-built shelter will provide safe places for people to come indoors, making the community stronger and safer for everyone.”
The homes and shelter spaces will be located in two separate buildings. A four-storey building will provide long-term supportive housing, while a two-storey building will provide a space for people to sleep, eat, shower and connect with community services.
The supportive housing building at 925 Braidwood Rd. will include 70 self-contained, furnished studio units with private bathrooms and kitchenettes equipped with full-sized refrigerators.
The building will also include a dining room, shared amenity room and office space.
Rent will be geared to income and aligned with the provincial shelter allowance, with residents paying up to $500 per month.
The site will be operated by Lookout Housing and Health Society and is expected to open in early 2028.
The shelter at 933 Braidwood Rd. will provide 73 shelter beds, with space to add up to 30 additional mats in an amenity space during inclement weather.
Connective will operate the shelter and have at least three staff members on site at all times.
Shelter guests will have access to cots, daily meals, washrooms and laundry facilities, as well as personalized care planning and referrals to health care, housing and other community services.
The shelter is expected to open in spring 2028.
Courtenay Mayor Bob Wells said he is grateful to see construction beginning on the projects, which are needed in Courtenay and the Comox Valley.
“Safe shelter and supportive housing can make a real difference in people’s lives.”
The province, through B.C. Housing, is providing $4.4 million to purchase the land.
Nearly $22 million is being provided through the Building B.C.: Supportive Housing Fund for the supportive housing building, while almost $17 million is coming from the Building B.C.: Housing Action Plan Enhanced fund for the shelter building.
The City of Courtenay is providing more than $150,000 in development-cost reductions.
