The provincial government has bought a former care home in downtown Victoria, and plans to quickly convert it to supportive housing to house the homeless.
The building at 844 Johnston Street was purchased for $11.2 million, and will hold 140 housing units when renovations are completed by late July.
“Renovations to the building and within the units will begin immediately to prepare for occupancy. Some of the upgrades include replacing flooring throughout the building, painting, pest-control proofing and security upgrades,” the government said in a statement.
Both the municipal and provincial government are hopeful the new units will help solve the issue of the homeless camp on the lawn of the Victoria Courthouse.
“We’d like to thank the Province for listening to the input of many Victorians who have suggested purchasing this vacant building and using it for much-needed housing. We look forward to seeing it open and people housed,” said Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps.
While 190 people have moved from the camp into housing since October 2015, the area has become increasingly difficult to police, and the government has undertaken legal action to shut down the tent city.
“Conditions at the courthouse lawn are unsafe and the fire hazard danger is growing. The purchase of the Central Care Home will add enough spaces to ensure these individuals are moved into safe housing that includes on-site support staff,” said Rich Coleman, Minister Responsible for Housing.
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