Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Region of Waterloo is redeveloping an outdated 16-unit walk-up in Kitchener into a modern apartment with 48 units for seniors.
Construction at 82 Wilson Ave. has progressed this summer, with plumbing completed and exterior walls now rising for the fourth, fifth, and sixth floors. The tender was awarded last summer to Melloul-Blamey Construction Inc., a construction company based in Waterloo.
“The new building at 82 Wilson is a prime example of how the Region is addressing the affordable housing crisis,” said Dana-Jill Stroeder, project manager. “This building is uniquely designed to connect with the adjacent 84 Wilson building, featuring a shared elevator that will provide access to amenities such as a commercial kitchen, community programming space, an outdoor garden with benches, and a dedicated area for the Region’s community paramedicine program.”
The new structure is also being developed as a net-zero carbon building, adhering to high efficiency standards and without any natural gas connections. This initiative is part of a broader effort by Waterloo Region Housing to revitalize its affordable housing inventory and triple capacity.
“Adding these new buildings will significantly impact the lives of many individuals waiting for affordable housing. The Wilson Avenue construction is set to welcome seniors into their new homes by summer 2025,” Stroeder added.
As the housing affordability crisis continues to challenge the community, the region launched the Building Better Futures strategy, aiming to boost the annual construction of affordable homes from 50 to 500.
By utilizing land already owned by the Region, similar to ongoing projects on Lauris Ave in Cambridge and Kingscourt Drive in Waterloo, the plan allows for faster construction and expanded Waterloo Region Housing services. This strategy focuses on creating more affordable, accessible, and energy-efficient housing options.
Earlier this month, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation announced $2.4 million to help fund the 82 Wilson project.
“We thank our federal partners for their support in this vital community initiative,” said Stroeder. “Together, we are tackling the affordable housing crisis head-on.”