Seventy-one new affordable rental homes are open in Coquitlam

FAMILIES, individuals and seniors are moving into 71 new affordable rental homes in Coquitlam.

“Coquitlam is a growing community, and we want to make sure that the people who want to stay and live there have the choice to do so,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, on Thursday. “These homes are important because they give families, seniors and workers that choice, providing stable and affordable housing in the community they call home. By partnering with local organizations and housing providers, we’re using every available tool to deliver more homes faster and make life more affordable for people.”

The project at 315 Alderson Avenue is the result of partnership between the Province, through BC Housing, and Lookout Housing and Health Society. BC Housing has secured 40 homes in the newly built development from Anthem Properties for use as affordable market rental housing. Lookout owns the remaining 31 units and will operate the building. All 31 homes will be offered at below-market rents.

“I wake up feeling like this is my home,” said Molly, a tenant at the new building. “You don’t have stress that the landlord is going to evict you or something like that. I just feel so secure in the building. It’s warm, homey, and again, the staff are so attentive.”

The six-storey building is part of Anthem’s SOCO community, a master-planned development that will include eight buildings with a mix of market and affordable homes, retail services and a daycare. Four buildings are complete. Residents will have access to amenities such as a fitness centre, common gathering space, rooftop outdoor area and landscaped outdoor spaces that support community connection.

The building is next to the Hanin Village shopping area and approximately a 10-minute walk from Lougheed SkyTrain station. Its central location provides residents with access to transit, services and amenities.

“As Coquitlam continues to grow, it’s important that people at every stage of life can find a home they can afford,” said Jennifer Whiteside, MLA for New Westminster-Coquitlam. “These new homes will provide greater stability for families, seniors and individuals, helping them stay and thrive in the community they call home. It’s encouraging to see strong partnerships creating more housing options for local residents.”

The project is part of a $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government. Since 2017, the Province has more than 99,000 homes delivered or underway, including nearly 1,000 homes in Coquitlam.

Shayne Williams, CEO, Lookout Housing and Health Society, said: “Having a safe, affordable place to call home changes everything. These 71 homes mean families can put down roots, seniors can age with stability and individuals can rely on housing stability. This building represents dignity, security and a fresh start for people who deserve to live with peace of mind.”

Mark Kopinya, senior vice-president of development, Anthem Properties, said: “In a housing market where affordable supply remains critically constrained, delivering a variety of home types requires creativity and trust. By working closely initially with the City of Coquitlam and then BC Housing and the Lookout Housing and Health Society, we were able to create Great Space at our master-plan project at SOCO that would not have been possible working alone. Leveraging relationships like this are how we move the needle on housing affordability, and we’re proud to see families and seniors calling these homes their own.”

Quick Facts:

* The Province, through BC Housing, contributed approximately $22 million through the Affordable Rental Housing Fund to support the purchase.

* The 31 units owned by Lookout are supported through separate, private financing.