COURTENAY, B.C. – Work is about to get underway on a supportive housing project on 8th Street in downtown Courtenay.
In June, City of Courtenay council members approved the rezoning application for this project, which will include 46 units to house people in the Comox Valley who are either homeless or at risk of homelessness.
According to BC Housing, a development permit has been issued and pending final building permit approvals, construction will start in the coming weeks, and the modular facility will be ready for occupancy by March 2019.
The three-storey building will offer a range of support services for tenants including access to mental health and addiction supports.
Each unit will include a bathroom and kitchenette. There will also be common amenity spaces which include a lounge area, a commercial kitchen and a dining area.
The building will be operated by the John Howard Society of North Island with staff working closely with residents to connect them to support services.
A minimum of two staff would be onsite 24/7 to support residents, manage the building, and be available to respond directly to any related concerns that arise in a timely manner, according to a release.
During daytime hours, there would be a manager/ residence coordinator, building/grounds maintenance staff, cook and additional supports from other partners providing specialized services.
To be eligible to live in the units, future residents have to be over the age of 19, have a history of homelessness, need additional support services to maintain housing, and be a Comox Valley resident.
