On Wednesday, Richmond residents will ask questions and provide their feedback on the 40 units of modular housing being built for vulnerable people in partnership between the City of Richmond and the provincial government.

“So far the feedback coming back, there’s been a whole range of viewpoints. So there’s some concerns that have been raised but also we’ve been made aware that there’s a great need for this type of housing,” Joyce Rautenberg, affordable housing coordinator for the city told Richmond News, referring to the city’s public survey on Let’s Talk Richmond.

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“Some of the concerns that do come up with this type of housing would be concerns around property values, security and I think people are looking for more information on how the project will be managed.”

Announced earlier this month, the project is an effort to combat the growth of homelessness in Richmond which has increased by 84 per cent since 2014, according to the Metro Vancouver homeless count. The homes will be operated by RainCity Housing, a non-profit housing organization and will offer support services for residents around-the-clock.

“The tenants will be selected in partnership with BC Housing and RainCity. Richmond residents will be given first priority,” Rautenberg said.

Currently, the province is contributing $5.9 million to construct the units while the city is contributing land at 7300 Elmbridge Way for the homes for up to five years.

“Looking at the city’s inventory we looked at a few options,” Rautenberg said about the property. “This site was determined to be the most suitable due to the close proximity to transit, Canada Line, buses and proximity to services and resources in the neighbourhood.”

Following the five-year lease, BC Housing would return the site back to the city in its original condition, Rautenberg said. At that time, BC Housing and RainCity Housing would work to ensure the tenants are moved into appropriate housing.

Residents can attend the open-house style community on Wednesday, Feb. 28 from 3:30-7:30 p.m. at the Richmond Public Library — Brighouse (Main) branch located at 7700 Minoru Gate. Feedback can also be given at LetsTalkRichmond.ca until Sunday, March 4, 2018.

