Downtown Sooke may soon see new rental housing and a much-wanted community health centre as part of the provincial government’s B.C. Builds initiative.
Lot A at 6671 Wadams Way is among the eight properties selected across B.C. for expedited construction of rental homes targeting middle-income residents.
B.C. Builds teams the province with non-profits, local governments, public agencies, First Nations, and community groups to identify underused land. Funding and financing will then be available to support housing construction targeted at those with a household income of roughly $84,000 and $190,000.
“Our communities and our economy depend on middle-income people like teachers, nurses, and construction workers, and they depend on being able to find a decent place to live within their budget,” Premier David Eby said.
“By bringing together public landowners and housing developers and operators through B.C. Builds, we are transforming underused public land throughout the province into thousands of lower-cost, middle-income rental homes.”
B.C. Builds is asking for proposals to build two floors of residential housing that incorporate the Sooke Region Community Health Centre-Urgent and Primary Care Centre.
Lot A, a property owned by the District of Sooke, is envisioned as a vibrant community hub. In 2022, a library was established on the site, and future plans include a 76-unit affordable seniors’ housing complex and a community centre.
The province’s recent announcement is an open call for proposals, inviting developers to participate in the B.C. Builds initiative. The initiative offers attractive financing options and grants, aiming to expedite project timelines and bring them to fruition within 12 to 18 months.
Mayor Maja Tait said the announcement is a milestone toward realizing an integrated health centre for Sooke.
“Together, we’re forging a path toward a stronger, more inclusive future, ensuring vital services are within reach, right here at home.
– with files from Black Press Media
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