Project Name and Location: 749 School Road Supportive Housing Project, Gibsons, British Columbia

Project Type: Supportive Housing Development

Project Scope: Construction of a three-story building comprising 40 self-contained studio units, each equipped with on-site support services to assist individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Completion Date: March 2021

Client or Partner Organizations:

• BC Housing: Funded and managed the construction, providing support services to residents.
• RainCity Housing: Operates the housing and delivers support services to residents.
• Town of Gibsons: Owns the land and facilitated the project’s development.

Budget and Scale: Not specified

Key Features or Highlights:

• 40 self-contained studio homes.
• On-site support services, including outreach workers, wellness checks, life skills training, employment assistance, and connections to community services.
• Priority given to Gibsons residents.

Challenges Faced and Solutions:

• Community Engagement: Conducted multiple community dialogues and public hearings to address concerns and incorporate feedback.
• Zoning and OCP Amendments: Successfully navigated amendments to the Official Community Plan and zoning bylaws to permit the development.

Community or Environmental Impact:

• Provides safe, secure housing for individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness, enhancing community well-being.
• Reduces homelessness in the Gibsons area, contributing to social stability.

Key Services Provided:

• Permanent supportive housing with 24/7 on-site staff.
• Access to health, mental health, and addiction recovery services through Vancouver Coastal Health.

Project Timeline and Milestones:

• Spring 2018: Council applied under the Surplus Federal Real Property for Homelessness Initiative to acquire the property.
• March 2019: Federal government approved the land transfer.
• April 2019: Community dialogues held to share information and gather feedback.
• June 2019: Zoning and Official Community Plan amendment applications submitted.
• October 2019: Public hearing conducted; bylaws adopted in December 2019.
• January 2020: Demolition of the old RCMP building.
• August 2020: Construction of the new facility commenced.
• March 2021: Occupancy permit issued; residents began moving in.

Relevant Permits or Certifications:

• Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 1065-49.
• Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 985-23.

For more information, please visit the Town of Gibsons’ official page on the 749 School Road Supportive Housing Project.