The Town of Cochrane is looking into turning an old RCMP office into affordable housing. Photo source: Town of Cochrane Facebook page showing Man of Vision statue
The Town of Cochrane is exploring an affordable housing option.
Cochrane Town Council has directed Administration to take the next steps related to a potential affordable housing opportunity at the site of the former RCMP building, which is currently owned by the Government of Canada.
If the Town chooses to not advance on this affordable housing project at this site, which is at 359 First Street East, the federal government will explore other opportunities and determine the next steps for this property.
According to Matt Knox, the Director of Social Development for the Town of Cochrane, there are a few reasons why the project won’t go through.
Knox adds that if there is anything related to technical or neighbourhood constraints identified through design and the engagement sessions, that will also cause this project to not go through.
While nothing is currently set in stone about how much it would cost to convert this building into affordable housing, Knox says it could cost millions.
According to Knox, if this affordable housing option doesn’t work out, the Town will consider other options.
The Town is hoping to have the decision about this project within the next 18 months, but Knox says there are different pieces that could cause that timeline to shift.
Knox adds that people in Cochrane have expressed that affordable housing is a priority in town, and the Town is exploring all options available, because they know the need for affordable housing is great.
If this project gets approved, it will increase the supply of below-market rental housing in Cochrane, while protecting long-term affordability.
To learn more about this project, click here.
Comments