Supportive homes for people in need expected to be completed this summer

The city of Vancouver is turning a vacant lot in an industrial area of east Vancouver into a supportive housing project that will house nearly 100 people.

Two buildings containing 98 temporary modular homes are being built at 1580 Vernon Drive and are expected to be completed this summer.

Each of the units will measure about 320 square feet and include a kitchenette, bathroom, living/sleeping area, and individual heating. Two meals will be provided each day. The project is being funded through the B.C. government's $66-million program to build temporary modular housing in Vancouver.

Since 2018, the city has used the cash to construct 660 temporary modular homes.

“With the approval of Vernon Drive, we are celebrating the approval of more than 750 temporary modular homes in Vancouver thanks to our partnership with the province of British Columbia,” Vancouver Mayor Kennedy Stewart said in a news release.

“Combined with an additional 350 permanent modular homes, this landmark housing agreement will change the lives of more than 1,000 people and proves that residents across Vancouver are eager to open their communities up to neighbours in need and help us transform into a city that works for everyone.”

B.C. Housing will be responsible for overseeing the tenant application process, while the building will be managed and staffed by Community Builders Group, a non-profit housing operator.