Newly renovated Maverick Manor to open Dec 1

Nov 26, 2017 | 2:45 PM

KAMLOOPS — The newly renovated Maverick Manor is set to open December 1.

A year ago ASK Wellness announced it had partnered with the City of Kamloops, B.C. Housing and other community groups to convert the former motel into a transition centre where people who used to be homeless can live while transitioning into the workforce.

ASK Wellness Executive Director Bob Hughes says the opening was originally planned for September but  had to be pushed back due to the complexity of the project.

“Installing the fire suppression system was a massive undertaking. Then there was the replacing of all of the floors and upgrading the plumbing. Essentially we had to convert the space from a nightly motel to an adequate place for peope to be able to call home.”

Crews also dismantled the motel’s swimming pool and waterslide and replaced the area with a community kitchen and fitness room.

Hughes says Ask Wellness has obtained a partial occupancy permit from the city which allows ten people to move in at the start of the month.

All 43 suites are expected to be filled by the new year with rent rates ranging from $425 to 550.

“It’s so desperately needed for us to have some afforable housing in the community,” said Hughes. “To have this completed showcasing what can be done with an old motel and turning it into a vibrant community for people to get well and get back into the workforce I couldn’t be more pleased.”