A public hearing into a controversial affordable housing complex in Steveston will take place on Tuesday.
The project aims to provide 25 homes for low-income women and children on city-owned land at Steveston Highway and Railway Avenue.
It received $9.1 million from the federal government to cover construction costs. BC Housing will also cover $7.2 million in operational costs while Turning Point Housing society will manage the building.
The proposal was met with pushback shortly after its announcement — a petition against the proposal had apparently garnered 100 signatures within four days, citing safety and parking concerns.
Advocates, on the other hand, have voiced their full support for the project.
“Once this much-needed housing is built, (vulnerable) parents will finally have a safe and affordable place to call home and to raise their children,” reads the Richmond Poverty Reduction Coalition’s letter to city council.
The letter applauded the project’s location, as it will be close to transit and schools.
“We know that affordable housing allows low-income families to thrive and become active members of the community.
“This housing will change these families’ lives forever,” reads the letter.
The City of Richmond’s planning committee approved the proposal in July. The public hearing will take place in Richmond City Hall council chambers on Sept. 5 starting 7 p.m.
