WATCH: What once was a place of incarceration will now become a space where vulnerable citizens can feel the freedom of a safe, comfortable home. Jeremy Hunka reports.
For years, 211 Gore Street was home to some of Canada’s most notorious drug offenders.
Later this month, it reopens for an entirely different purpose.
“It’s pretty amazing actually. It’s certainly a remarkable transition,” says Rich Coleman, Minister responsible for Housing.
The bars have been replaced and the cells have been retrofitted; the jail, now a 96-unit affordable housing development.
READ MORE: Vacant Vancouver jail transforms into affordable, low-income housing
Rents will range from $375 to $850, with the $21 million capital cost being paid by the government.
In addition to the residential units, the development will include the conversion of the existing jail gymnasium to a multi-purpose room, a community garden in the courtyard, a communal lounge and a bicycle storage facility.
“It’s good that their opening it up,” said Jean Swanson, an anti-poverty activist.
“The problem is only 25 of the 95 or so units are going to be affordable to people who are on welfare and disability, who are the people most likely to be homeless and need housing the most.”
– With files from Jeremy Hunka and Christine Tam
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