KAMLOOPS — A forum hosted by the BC Non-Profit Housing Association in Kamloops today shone a spotlight on affordable housing, and those working to provide it.
During a noon hour plenary session, those spearheading the revitilization of Spirit Square on the North Shore were asked to share about the project.
Executive Director of Ask Wellness Bob Hughes, says the project is one of the most complicated he’s been a part of.
“It has a number of partners. I think as we know that area has been problematic for a lot of reasons. It’s basically a dead space in one of the nicest parts of this community. For ASK to feel that they’re a part of this revitalization after 11 years of working there and working alongside the North Shore BIA, a great developer with Joshua Knaak and ARPA, and have the city literally saying ‘what do we need to make this happen?’ has been really refreshing.”
The Spirit Square Project will be a two-building development including 33 market residential units, 43 affordable rental units for seniors, and spaces for a restaurant, offices and commercial business.
“This is an opportunity for us to reclaim that space as a community, to work with our providers and our partners to really reinvigorate and revitalize this corner of our business community, and to embrace what can happen in an effective housing project that’s well run,” says Jeremy Heighton, executive director of the North Shore BIA.
