2230 Harrison Drive

As Hannah had a late night volunteer meeting, I decided to head down to Victoria and SE Marine Drive area to learn more about this proposed below market seniors housing expansion. Plus, as the event was held at the Finnish Home, I thought I might get to try some unique snacks. While there was some Finnish Candy and Spice Bread, I never would have imagined that these 72 homes would face an uphill fight against their neighbours.

While I tried to take in the project boards, I was drawn to a commotion by the building model where a group of a neighbours were badgering staff. Clearly upset, they couldn’t understand why the City would fund these below market homes which would block their views. Staff tried to explain that even though this was below market housing, it was privately funded. Unfortunately, no one was interested in listening, insisting that the concept was good, but the homes belonged in a different location.

When I spoke in favor of the project, I was immediately accused of working for the developer, and then of working for the City. When they learned I didn’t live in the neighbourhood, they refused to let me speak, simply shouting over top of me whenever I tried. This uncivil opposition even targeted city staff, as they made false allegations that one staff member was biased, and corrupt simply for trying to explain which City policies allowed for this proposal.

The history behind this development is even more shocking. I learned that the proposal, originally for only a 1 floor increase to 4 stories, was first made 7 years ago. After receiving positive feedback from it’s first of five city planners, the applicant soon rehoused the residents of the existing building. Unfortunately, that was a grave mistake, as the strong neighbourhood opposition has led to it sitting empty for years. Now armed with new City Policies, the project is finally moving forward as a 6 story building.

Though the 6th floor is very small, it’s also a very well handled amenity space. This area comes complete with a Finnish Spa, plenty of lounging room, and a garden designed in the shape of the flag of Finland. I learned that city staff would like the garden to be planted with blue flowers, which is a desire I agree with. Planners are also responsible for the applicant differentiating the massing into a lighter and darker section, which will be highlighted with tinted blue windows. My only concern about the proposal is the livability of the northwestern ground floor homes, as they face into a tree covered hillside. Apparently, this is a result of neighbourhood opposition to the original plan of locating the parking garage entrance with a overhead patio space in this area.

In the lull between waves of opposition, a couple of members of Abundant Housing Vancouver also stopped by. Though soon after the room was again dominated by a small but vocal opposition. While the interactions were more civil, the sentiments expressed were terrible, as one person felt they deserved this “million dollar view” more than these seniors did. They also expressed strong concern over the parking situation on Harrison Drive, which they feel has become untenable since a neighbour has added two basement suites AND a laneway home. When I suggested they could request permit parking on the street, this person decried the idea of paying an extra “tax” (a permit would cost about $40 a year).

Unfortunately, as the opposition dominated the attention of the city and applicant staff, no one paid attention to a small group of seniors trying to fill out their forms nearby. Though maybe I didn’t notice if/when they were provided assistance. I can’t think of a better metaphor for this proposal; While staff have spent years trying to appease unreasonable concerns, the housing needs of seniors have been ignored. Though the applicant never desired media attention, one can only imagine that, if not for the 7 year delay, these below market homes could have been even more affordable. While most of us are years away from needing seniors housing, we all likely know someone who already does. Don’t let their needs continue to be pushed aside, and write in with your thoughts here.

Project Stats

a total of 72 seniors affordable rental housing units;

a total floor space ratio (FSR) of 1.91;

a total floor area of 5,795.8 sq. m (62,386 sq. ft.);

a maximum height of 20.0 m (66 ft.); and

22 vehicle parking spaces and 93 bicycle spaces.