More than two years after blasting started on the site, nearly 100 seniors have been able to move into a new lower-cost rental building in Saanich’s Maplewood area.
Originally expected to open in the fall of last year, the 97-unit Linwood Court at 3200 Linwood Ave. started accepting tenants in July, and some units are still available, according to B.C. Housing.
The new building replaces a 29-unit apartment building that was built in the 1970s and was demolished to make room for the new structure.
The four-storey, wood-frame new building has 97 one-bedroom units designed for independent living for those 55 and older with low to moderate incomes. Units range from 586 to 707 square feet.
Residents of the original building were offered the opportunity to return to the new building with no change to their rent.
The 59,000-square-foot development has seven wheelchair-accessible units, scooter parking, high ceilings and outdoor gardens.
Linwood Court is owned and operated by the Baptist Housing Society and was made possible through $11 million from the province and $6 million from the federal government.
Provincial Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon noted the project, which had its grand opening Wednesday, more than triples the number of homes on the site.
“We will continue to put in the work across the province so that seniors can stay connected and secure in the community they call home,” he said.
Victoria-Swan Lake MLA Rob Fleming said more affordable housing is needed for seniors throughout B.C.
“With the opening of this building, seniors who can live independently now have the opportunity to stay in Saanich, the community they know, and remain close to their network of family and friends.”
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