Construction begins on Old Grace Housing Co-operative

(Winnipeg)  After more than four years of planning, shovels are in the ground today at the site of Old Grace Housing Co-operative (OGHC) in Wolseley. The first residents of the 60-suite complex will move into their new homes in early 2018.

Sandra Hardy.

The $15.8 million project includes a mix of 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-bedroom units, well-designed common areas and professional landscaping. Co-op President Sandra Hardy noted “The co-op has a very strong commitment to environmental sustainability, and in addition to being a registered Manitoba Hydro PowerSmart project, we are striving for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold.” The construction project is expected to generate a total economic impact of $21.8 million including 120 person-years of direct and indirect employment. (Click here for full text of speech.)

Thirty of the 60 suites are reserved for households qualifying under the Province’s Affordable Housing Rental Program. Six fully accessible units are planned and the parking, service and common areas, and grounds will be fully accessible. Two Peg City Car Co-op vehicles will be available on site and members will have ample secure bicycle parking.

Scott Fielding.

As an inter-generational, mixed-income, co-operative, OGHC will fill a significant gap in the housing market . Hardy credited the Province of Manitoba and Assiniboine Credit Union for supporting the co-op’s vision and making the financing of the co-op possible. “Without their support and guidance, we would have not been able to get this off the drawing board.”

“Today, the OGHC’s vision for sustainable and diverse housing in Wolseley is one step closer to reality, and we are proud to be a partner in this exciting project,” said Manitoba Families Minister Scott Fielding. “Our Government recognizes that quality, affordable housing is a priority for Manitoba families and seniors, and this complex will be an important part of the community for years to come.”

Bill Dinsdale.

Bill Dinsdale, Community Account Manager for Assiniboine Credit Union echoed the importance of the inclusion of 30 affordable suites. “Assiniboine Credit Union is proud to be the financial partner of choice for Old Grace Housing Co-op. This co-op will fill a vital need in our community, and is a perfect fit for ACU’s affordable housing financing strategy.”

Blair Hamilton.

Blair Hamilton, Manitoba Program Manager for the Cooperative Housing Federation welcomed OGHC into the family of 900 non-profit housing co-ops across the country. “The members of Old Grace are to be congratulated on their principled approach. Through their intense work, this innovative model bodes well for the future of the housing co-ops in Manitoba and across Canada.”

“The drive and commitment of the co-op’s members, coupled with the enthusiasm and expertise of our consulting team have enabled us to reach today’s milestone, Hardy said.”

Hardy gave a special thank you to the Wolseley Residents’ Association, local businesses, and not-for-profit organizations that have worked with the co-op over the past years. “All along, they appreciated that a co-op would make an important contribution to the neighbourhood.”

Cynthia Neudoerffer.

Cynthia Neudoerffer, President of the Wolseley Resident’s Association said, “The WRA is thrilled to officially welcome the Old Grace Housing Co-operative into the Wolseley community. Throughout the years to get to this day, co-op members have actively engaged with our organization and other neighbours to ensure that their vision aligns with that of the greater community. We look forward to watching the construction over the coming months and welcoming new and old friends to the co-op and to Wolseley.”

Joining Hardy, Fielding, Dinsdale, Hamilton and Neudoerffer at the sod turning event was Aaron Russin of Peg City Co-op; and the design and construction team: Concord Projects, construction contractor; Prairie Architects; DSI Tandem Co-op Consultants; and HTFC Planning and Landscape Design.

In closing, Hardy added, “Today marks the beginning of the move from concept to concrete. And I think I can speak for the rest of the board, all our members, and our community supporters when I say today marks a very exciting milestone for us.”

(Photos by Arne MacPherson.)

Further information is also available at:

 

oldgracehousingcoop@gmail.com

Old Grace Housing Co-operative Backgrounder

What is the Old Grace Housing Co-op (OGHC)?

OGHC is a group of more than 280 members, of all ages and a variety of backgrounds. A good portion are current or former Wolseley residents. We know this community and value its diversity and character.

How have we gotten to this point?

When the provincial government announced its intention to redevelop the property where the original Grace Hospital was located and accept proposals for the development of the land, our vision emerged as all good visions emerge – around a kitchen table. As it took shape, more people became excited and involved, and we have been working together for more than 4 years to build our organization, consult with the larger community and develop our proposal. We have been guided by our commitment to collaboration, community development, environmental sustainability and International Co-operative Principles. We have held formal consultations with Wolseley residents and housing groups, many of whom participated in a Collective Design Process Workshop to set parameters for architectural and landscape design.

What is the vision of the co-op?

OGHC’s plans are built on our vision of an inter-generational, mixed-income, architecturally distinctive and environmentally sustainable co-operative housing project – one that will be an asset to the Wolseley neighbourhood. Occupants will finance and govern their co-op, which creates a stable, intentional community of residents who care for the property, and respect and contribute to the local neighbourhood.

What’s the design plan?

OGHC’s design concept reflects the character of the surrounding neighbourhood, and includes a mix of 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom units in a 60-unit apartment complex. Thirty of the units are designated ‘affordable’ (including 12 Rent Supplement units) and 30 are designated ‘market’ (meaning there will be no cap on resident income). Six fully accessible units are planned. The complex will include numerous exterior design features – front porches, patios, pergolas, a central courtyard, professional landscaping, and more. All will be designed to be fully accessible.

What will happen with parking?

The parking allocation for the complex is 29 spots, including 3 handicap spots and visitor parking. Co-op members have a strong focus on environmental sustainability, and reducing car usage is an integral part of our commitment to sustainable development and a reduced environmental footprint. Surveys of our members show that many will not use private vehicles, and instead will rely on alternative transportation including transit, cycling and/or carsharing. In addition, Peg City Car Co-op will manage two carshare locations on site and members will have the option of joining the car co-op if they choose. Peg City’s research suggests each co-op car takes up to 13 vehicles off the road, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and parking demand. Secure bicycle parking for more than 60 bikes will also be provided.

Is the property at 905 Preston part of the co-op’s future?

Yes. Following the complete approval of the project for  189 Evanson St, we will move to phase two of our plans.  Our present proposal for the 905 Preston  site is for 10 single  bedroom suites and 16 parking spots, however these plans must be approved by two levels of government.

How many co-op members have requested a unit?

In February 2016  60% of the units were spoken for.  In July we were at 85 % capacity. Our goal is to have all suites allocated before we start construction which is scheduled in late  summer of 2016.

How is the project financed and what is the budget ?

As a co-operative, all members  contribute to the financing of the project. The projected capital budget is over $15 million to be funded by member shares/loans, mortgage financing, provincial tax credits, support from Manitoba Housing (who will retain ownership of the land), fundraising and small grants. The land will be leased to OGHC at a nominal rate.

What is the timeline?

We anticipate construction will begin in the summer of 2016  with occupancy in early 2018.


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