July 26 2024 –
Development of a 93-unit social housing building is one step closer, creating safe, sustainable and inclusive housing for individuals and families in East Vancouver.
The future 15-storey, mixed-used residential building, to be located at 800 Commercial Drive, was approved by City Council at a public hearing last night (July 25). Entre Nous Femmes Housing Society (ENFHS) has been selected as the housing operator.
“We’re proud to be one step closer to delivering this important housing development for East Vancouver,” says Mayor Ken Sim. “This project represents a significant step toward addressing our city’s urgent need for affordable housing, while enhancing well-being in the Grandview-Woodland neighbourhood. We are building a brighter, more inclusive future for Vancouver.”
ENFHS’s vision for the project is to create safe, affordable and sustainable rental housing that fosters social connections and intergenerational living. The project will prioritize individuals and families facing barriers due to gender, race, income and abilities.
“Entre Nous Femmes Housing Society (ENFHS) is delighted to continue our 40-year legacy of providing affordable housing to women, gender-diverse groups, single-parent families and seniors in the Grandview Woodland community in partnership with the City of Vancouver,” says Lilian Chau, Chief Executive Officer, ENFHS. “The 800 Commercial Drive project will provide 93 units of much-needed affordable housing and new non-profit office space for ENFHS and M’akola Development Services. This project exemplifies how City lands, in partnership with non-profit housing organizations, can be stewarded to provide affordable housing for generations to come. We look forward to welcoming residents to their new homes in a few years.”
The development includes 26 studio units, 29 one-bedroom units, 26 two-bedroom and 12 three-bedroom units, as well as commercial and retail space envisioned as hubs for community services. A minimum of 30 per cent of homes will be rented at or below Housing Income Limits (HILs). Additional affordability through senior government funding programs will also be explored with the City’s housing operator, ENFHS.
Fostering community
The City-owned site currently comprises three lots. These lots will be consolidated to create space for the new building, which includes indoor and outdoor shared amenities to encourage neighbourly interactions and foster a sense of community.
Located in the heart of a vibrant, family-friendly neighbourhood in East Vancouver, residents will be near neighbourhood amenities including, Woodland Park, Britannia Community Centre and Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre.
Next steps
Collaborating with the City, ENFHS will seek funding opportunities from senior government and engage a design team and construction manager for the detailed development permit application. The City has provided the land, which will be leased to ENFHS for a nominal fee.
This development furthers the goals of the City’s Grandview-Woodland Community Plan and Housing Vancouver Strategy. Vancouver continues to lead the way in innovative housing solutions, and this project exemplifies the City’s dedication to building a better future for all residents.