A new housing project has been proposed for the Victoria-Fraserview neighbourhood, with the goal of space for 72 people experiencing homelessness.
The proposal for 1925 SE Marine Dr. would see a plot of land currently covered by a stand of trees turned into a six-storey building with 72 studio apartments, according to an application with the City. Along with living space it would have supports for single adults, seniors, and people with disabilities, according to the application.
"Vancouver is in a housing crisis and more than 2,000 people across the city of Vancouver are experiencing homelessness. Creating warm, safe homes with supports for people who are at risk of or are experiencing homelessness in our communities continues to be a top priority for BC Housing and the City of Vancouver," states the application.
Along with the units, plans show a commercial kitchen, shared dining space, other shared spaces, seven vehicle parking spaces, and 84 bike spots. It's noted that the design encourages a social environment to decrease isolation, while also providing enough space for people to respect personal space.
"The residential units are designed to house a vulnerable and marginalized population and include bicycle/scooter spaces," states the application.
The project is part of the Permanent Modular Supportive Hosing Initiative, a partnership involving BC Housing, the City of Vancouver and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. The initiative is "critical" in ending Vancouver's homelessness crisis, the application says.
The project is currently in the rezoning phase, as the property is currently zoned for residential use and needs to become a comprehensive development district for the proposal to move forward.
