By Dylana Milobar

Construction underway on new affordable seniors housing

Jan 25, 2019 | 4:05 PM

KAMLOOPS — Demolition has begun in downtown Kamloops, as construction gets underway for new seniors housing units.

More than 100 units will be built in the five-storey building going up on the corner of 6th Avenue, and Victoria Street, along with commercial space on the first floor.

The new development on the former Cineplex Odeon property will breathe new life into what has been an eyesore for many years.

The Kamloops Centre for Seniors Information is leading the way with getting funding from BC Housing for the 112 units, ranging from studio-sized, to two bedrooms. 

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KCIS Executive Director, Brenda Prevost says they already have many interested people asking about the project.

“It’s exciting, and there’s been a complete buzz in the community for a while with the seniors population — looking at location for this housing project.”

Prevost says the perks of having the housing come to downtown spread beyond having amenities within walking distance.

“To have affordable housing for our older population is incredibly important for Kamloops, and again, especially in a location that is easy to access.”

The project stems from the Building BC: Community Housing Fund, which aims to address affordable housing needs across a variety of income levels.

“At this point in time the announcement that has been made is the $11.2 million,” she explains. “But the final numbers I can’t offer yet, because we’re still in negotiations with that part of it.”

While the final funding amount is being set, crews with Kaktus Flats Developments have already begun demolishing the old building, with construction expected to be finished by summer or fall of 2020.

“We’re predicting we’ll be right on time from today. With help from our great city and the neighbourhood,” Project Manager, Karo Stein says. “Doing zero lot lines is quite difficult, so public is obviously our number one concern, to keep them safe. But we’ll be 20 to 24 months.”

As a large portion of the local population nears retirement, those spearheading the project, like Mel Laffrenere with Kaktus Flats know how much affordable living can mean to seniors.

“I’m a senior myself, and I’ve figured out the need for seniors,” Laffrenere says. “They’re not taken care of very well. And this project is going to really, really help them.”

Besides giving seniors affordable living arrangements, longtime community members are also just glad to see the old Cineplex building utilized.

“I used to drive by this building and couldn’t figure out why that is sitting there,” he explains. “I’m just as excited because I’m a senior. I’ll probably — when I’m done the building — end up being one of the members of the building.”