Affordable housing project meets with opposition in Armstrong

Photo: Google Maps

A proposed affordable housing project in Armstrong has been met with considerable opposition.

The agenda package for Monday evening's public hearing on the matter reveals the city has received dozens of letters opposing the project, which would see city-owned green space rezoned to multi-unit residential.

The property in question is located at 3455 Adair St., adjacent to Norval Arena and across the street from the Interior Provincial Exhibition grounds.

The proposed development, which has been recommended for approval by city staff, would include up to 80 units in four storeys.

Neighbours against the project are opposed to the city giving up land zoned for parks, and also cite concerns over its density and the "low-rent" nature of the development.

Those in support say Armstrong needs more rental units.

Council gave second reading to the Official Community Plan bylaw amendment at its Jan. 11 meeting.

Pending consideration of public feedback, staff recommend the change from park to multiple unit residential (medium density), be read a third time and adopted.

A report to council says the city is "seeking to support an affordable rental housing project ... (that) would consist of two 40-unit buildings consisting of a total of 80 dwelling units."

Planning staff note the site is currently not used as a part of either Memorial Park or the arena site, and is therefore "surplus to the city’s needs."

"The site is in close proximity to excellent city recreational facilities and transport networks, and therefore is the ideal location for a housing development."

A recent housing assessment identified that Armstrong is in need of 205 units of affordable housing.

The public hearing is scheduled for 5 p.m. Monday and will be accessible via Zoom.