The BC government says 105 new affordable housing units are currently under construction in Salmon Arm.

Sixty seven affordable rental units will house families, seniors and people with disabilities, while another 38 new supportive units will be set aside for people experiencing homelessness.

Mayor Alan Harrison says all three buildings will be managed by the Canadian Mental Health Association

“The vacancy rate for rentals in Salmon Arm is pretty well zero, so its very difficult for young families especially to find rental housing in our city,” he said. “So this is really filling a need. As far as supportive housing goes, the city just cannot afford to do that on our own so we really appreciate the province and CMHA jumping in to supply it for us.”

According to the province, people will pay about 30 per cent of the gross household income in the affordable rental homes, while those in supportive housing will pay the shelter rate of $375 a month.

“CMHA and Dawn Dunlop are the representatives there and I couldn’t give you an exact number but I know talking to Dawn, she feels that the number of units we are getting will certainly help fill the need and she doesn’t feel like there’s going to be any troubles filling those units,” Harrison added, noting the project is in a perfect location in downtown Salmon Arm.

“The hole was dug about a month ago. Both the supportive and the independent living units are being prepared now,” he said. “You know it’s going to be a year long project but certainly it’s started, so that’s a real positive for us.”

Construction is expected to be completed by winter next year.