Some Basin communities, such as Revelstoke and Golden will see enhancements made to the livability and emergency preparedness in their affordable rental housing buildings.
The Columbia Basin Trust has partnered with non-profit housing societies and other organizations to invest almost $3.3 million to increase building hospitality, making them overall more welcoming, accessible, safe and resilient.
These enhancements aim to benefit seniors, families and individuals in 17 communities.
The Trust said the properties receiving upgrades could see accessible appliances, new furniture for common areas, outdoor amenities such as gazebos, barbeques and patio furniture, as well as equipment that encourages exercise. They added that these improvements will support inclusiveness along with social gatherings.
During emergencies, communities that experience many power outages will receive new backup power systems, ensuring that heat, cooling, lighting and communication stay available.
“When we’re at home, we all want to feel comfortable and secure,” Ulli Mueller, senior manager, Delivery of Benefits of the Columbia Basin Trust, said. “These projects will help people feel supported and connected in their homes and bring peace of mind by keeping essential services running during outages.”
In Revelstoke, $48,000 will be dedicated towards the Oscar Townhomes, adding tenant bike and recreation equipment. Mt. Begbie Manor will receive $37,000 in shading for climate control in individual units, automatic doors, common area furniture and exercise equipment, outdoor patio table and chairs. For Mt. Begbie Villas, $36,350 will go towards shading for climate control in individual units, screen tent and furnishing, outdoor benches, awning and garden boxes.
In Golden, the Purcell View Senior Apartments will receive $8,750 in non-slip flooring and an accessible washer and dryer for the laundry room.
As for emergency readiness upgrades, Golden will receive a 60kW diesel or propane generator with a 600 A automatic transfer switch at the Abbyfield House Golden and Purcell View. $300,000 will be going towards these generators.
