Three downtown Calgary buildings are set to be demolished in order to make way for the construction of affordable housing units. The decision was made by the city council in an effort to address the growing issue of housing affordability in the area.
The three buildings, located on 3rd Street SW between 7th and 8th Avenue, have been deemed as prime locations for the development of affordable housing. The city council has stated that the buildings are currently underutilized and their demolition will provide an opportunity to create much-needed affordable housing units in the heart of the city.
According to Mayor Naheed Nenshi, the decision to demolish the buildings was not an easy one, but it was necessary in order to address the pressing issue of housing affordability in Calgary. He stated, “We have seen a significant increase in housing prices in our city, making it difficult for many individuals and families to find affordable housing. This project will help to alleviate some of that pressure and provide more options for those in need.”
The city council has also announced that the new affordable housing units will be built in partnership with a non-profit organization, ensuring that the units will remain affordable for years to come. The organization will also be responsible for managing the units and providing support services for the residents.
The demolition of the three buildings is expected to begin in the coming months, with construction of the new affordable housing units to follow shortly after. The city council has stated that they are committed to ensuring that the process is carried out in a timely and efficient manner.
This decision has been met with mixed reactions from the community. While some have praised the city council for taking action to address the issue of housing affordability, others have expressed concerns about the loss of historical buildings in the downtown area.
However, the city council has assured that all necessary measures will be taken to preserve any historical elements of the buildings before their demolition. They have also stated that the new affordable housing units will be designed to complement the surrounding architecture and enhance the overall aesthetic of the area.
In conclusion, the demolition of these three downtown Calgary buildings marks a significant step towards addressing the issue of housing affordability in the city. With the construction of new affordable housing units, the city council hopes to provide more options for those in need and create a more inclusive and diverse community.