BY BILL PHILLIPS
bill@pgdailynews.ca
City council has given the go-ahead for the development of an ‘urban village’ near downtown.
The Aboriginal Housing Society of Prince George is proposing the development for Northern Legacy Development Corporation. It is proposing the development on a 2.7 hectare parcel of land just off Massey Drive between 15th Avenue and 20th Avenue.
The plan is to, in phases, to create 250 housing units on the property, which will include a mix of studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three bedroom units. Housing will be geared towards a range of demographic groups. The development will also include a daycare/night care facility, education centre, spiritual centre, recreation centre/hall, and garden space.
The first phase will include a two- to four-storey 50-unit wood-frame apartment building.
The Aboriginal Housing Society provides safe, health and affordable housing primarily for aboriginal people. It also operates 250 housing units in Prince George.
A need and demand study and feasibility study are still pending on the project.
The project received the support of Carrier Sekani Tribal Chief Terry Teegee.
“I truly believe when (the proponents) talk about an incredible vision on this project, that they will look after the neighbourhood,” said Coun. Brian Skakun. “It’s so exciting when they talk about market, affordable housing, the opportunities for people to actually own their own units. That may never happen in their lifetime.”
He said it addresses something council has talked about for a long time that being ‘infill’ in the downtown area.
“They’re going to make a difference in the lives of a lot of people,” he said.
Mayor Lyn Hall also voiced his support for the project.
“I think it really does support what we’re trying to do as a council when it comes to housing in our community,” he said, adding he was “very pleased” that the applicant will continue to meet with the community as the project proceeds.
Construction is expected to begin next year.
