Construction starts for mixed-used housing in Victoria

VICTORIA — More child care spaces and homes are on the way for Vancouver Island.

Work has started on a mixed-used housing development that will add 150 housing units and 36 child care spaces in Victoria.

“This unique project will benefit people in Victoria by providing child care spaces, affordable homes for seniors and working families, and safe, stable, supportive homes for people currently experiencing homelessness,” said Rob Fleming, MLA for Victoria-Swan Lake, in a press release. “I look forward to seeing the positive impact this project will have in our community for years to come. We will continue to work in partnership to build the homes people need in the capital region and throughout the province.”

Located at 3020 Douglas St. and 584 Burnside Rd. E., the Victoria Cool Aid Society’s Crosstown development project will provide 100 affordable rental homes for individuals, seniors and families and 54 supportive homes for people experiencing homelessness. A child care facility, operated by Beacon Community Services, will provide 36 child care spaces.

“Providing access to quality affordable child care is key for parents going back to work or returning to school,” said Katrina Chen, minister of state for child care. “We are delivering on our Childcare BC plan, and we’re hearing from families that affordable child care is having a life-changing impact.”

The rental housing will include a mix of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom homes for people with moderate and low incomes.

The supportive housing component will have studio and one-bedroom homes with 24/7 support. Victoria Cool Aid Society will provide onsite supports for residents, including daily meals, life-skills training, employment assistance and counselling, physical and mental health resources and access to treatment and recovery services.

Residents of the site’s former Tally Ho Motel, which is being used as temporary supportive housing for approximately 51 people, will have the option of moving into the new supportive homes upon completion of the building.

Development plans include commercial space, a coffee shop and a public plaza.

Construction is expected wrap up near the end of 2023.