Thunder Bay affordable housing may get boost in 2016

Superior Morning3:57More Affordable Housing

The Thunder Bay District Social Services Board says there will be more affordable social housing available.

Thunder Bay's District Social Services Board hopes that more new affordable housing units will be built next year.

At its board meeting Thursday, the board decided to ask for construction proposals as part of the investment in affordable housing program.

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The chief administrative officer of the social services board said if another 20 units were available, they could be filled immediately.

"For the most part, the biggest area of need that we see are either bachelor or one-bedroom units for non-senior single people," Bill Bradica said.

"That is the largest component of the wait list."

The program, which is worth $8 million over five years, also helped create 21 affordable housing units in the former Pattenick's building on Victoria Avenue, Bradica said.

"Realistically, it isn't a lot, especially when it comes to construction costs these days."

"Nevertheless the agency is hopeful the program will continue and will be given a financial boost in the future," he said.

The money can also be used to renovate existing housing stock.

The DSSABhas a building with another 16 units are under construction in the city. They are about 370 sq/ft each, and cost about $100,000 per unit to build.