Construction begins on Library and Affordable Housing Project

News Release
For immediate release

Saanich, BC – Saanich residents will soon see a modernized library and 210 units of affordable housing begin to take shape at 3950 Cedar Hill Road, as construction of this transformational mixed-use project begins.

Final project approvals from BC Housing and the Capital Region Housing Corporation (CRHC) were recently granted, and a completed building permit has been issued by the District – paving the way for the project to progress.

“On behalf of Saanich Council, I am thrilled to see this project coming to life,” says Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock. “We are incorporating mixed uses on municipal land to build affordable housing that’s close to transit, parks, shops and amenities. Having a safe, secure home in a well-connected neighbourhood provides the opportunity to put down roots – for seniors, families and young people who deserve a fair chance to build a life in this amazing community.”

This project is a partnership between the District of Saanich and the Capital Region Housing Corporation with a nominal lease of the land and funding for the library contributed by the District. Funding through the Province’s Building BC: Community Housing Fund program will support the purpose-built rental housing at a range of rental rates to support people with low to moderate incomes. The mix of rent levels includes:

• 20% of the units at shelter rates;
• 50% of the units offering rent-geared-to income rents; and
• 30% of the units with near market affordable rents.

“This new project is an exciting milestone for Saanich. By bringing together affordable housing and a new, modern library, we’re creating a space that supports both stability and connection in the community, says Nina Krieger, MLA for Victoria-Swan Lake. “Through our investments, we are helping people stay close to their neighbourhoods and the services they rely on.”

“The Cedar Hill Library and Affordable Housing Project is a great example of what we can achieve through collaboration with local and provincial partners, creating much-needed housing and public services for our region,” says Zac de Vries, chair of the Capital Region Housing Corporation (CRHC). “Together, we will deliver 210 safe, quality homes, turning housing insecurity into hope for individuals and families in Saanich.”  

“This is an important milestone for both the library and the community,” said Duncan Cavens, Chair of the Greater Victoria Public Library Board of Trustees. “The new branch will provide a modern and welcoming space and help support a growing region for decades to come. It will be a true community hub and an amazing resource for our diverse and vibrant community. I would like to thank the District of Saanich, the Province, and all partners who helped get the project to this stage. We are really looking forward to this exciting new chapter.”

The $158.8 million project is expected to be completed by 2030.

Learn More
To follow the progress of this project, please visit Saanich.ca/LibraryHousing.

-30-

Video: Library and Affordable Housing Project

 

Media Contact:
Saanich Communications
media@saanich.ca