The public is invited to provide their thoughts about the design of a new municipal housing project and park in Wallaceburg.
The current plans call for the creation of 60 to 70 rental apartment units in two new buildings on Westcourt Boulevard.
“The project will be the municipality’s first affordable housing project incorporating net-zero emissions principles for residential construction,” officials stated in a release.
Net-zero is achieved when a building produces as much energy as it consumes on an annual basis through on-site renewable energy generation.
These buildings prioritize energy efficiency and are cheaper to operate over a long-term period due to lower utility bills. Net-zero buildings can also qualify for external grants.
The buildings will be constructed on a nearly two-hectare site and will combine affordable rent and market rent units, with a variety of bedroom unit sizes.
A municipal park will also be created on the property to enhance the area and better integrate the development into the existing neighborhood.
The public is encouraged to provide input and share ideas through a survey at www.letstalkchatham-kent.ca/wallaceburg-westcourt-housing-park-project
Residents have until Feb. 28 to complete the survey.
In addition to potential grants, Coun. Aaron Hall said the net-zero concept will also enhance the quality of life for the future residents.
“Anytime we can generate feedback from the community on projects, (it) puts us in a better position as a council to make the right decisions,” he said. “Not only will this project bring new housing to the neighborhood, and chip away at the housing gap, the project will feature a brand-new park that anyone can enjoy in the community.
“I encourage everyone to submit their ideas about what amenities they would like to see included.”
In December 2021, council approved a recommendation to complete a feasibility study in order to create new affordable housing on the property.
The municipality has since obtained a Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation SEED funding grant for the pre-design phase.
Pending project funding, construction on the site could start in 2024.
As for other ongoing Wallaceburg housing projects, which are at various stages of development, Hall said the momentum is “picking up steam” as the community continues to grow.
“It’s exciting and overall fantastic news for Wallaceburg, and I’m grateful for the interest, commitment and investment being made,” he said. “The need is there and every single one of these recently announced housing development projects are directly addressing that gap.”