SURREY – Individuals, couples, and families have begun moving into 100 new affordable rental homes in Surrey. The six-storey building, known as Habitat @ 81st, is located at 13583 81 Ave. and offers a range of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes for households with moderate and low incomes.
The development includes community services and programs on the main floor and part of the second floor, which are delivered by Habitat’s sister society, Options Community Services Society. These services support children, youth, families, immigrants, and individuals facing mental health and addiction challenges.
Rent for the homes ranges from $375 for a studio to $1,950 for a three-bedroom unit. The rental rates are a combination of 30% of the resident’s income, market rates, and deep-subsidy rates.
This project is part of the British Columbia (B.C.) government’s $19 billion housing investment. Across the province, more than 77,000 homes have been delivered or are underway since 2017, including over 2,200 homes in Surrey.
The Habitat @ 81st project is a collaboration between the federal and provincial governments, the City of Surrey, Metro Vancouver, and the Habitat Housing Society. Managed by Habitat Housing Society, the building features ground-level outdoor and rooftop patios, an amenity room, and communal laundry facilities on each floor. Additionally, all suites are equipped with air conditioning.
BC Housing, through the Province, contributed $21.2 million to the project. This funding includes $15.4 million from the Affordable Rental Housing Program and $5.8 million from the Building BC: Community Housing Fund.
Mayor Brenda Locke of Surrey acknowledged the significance of the project in addressing the housing crisis. She expressed her enthusiasm for the addition of 100 purpose-built rental homes that will provide safe, stable, and affordable housing for residents. The City of Surrey waived development fees for Habitat @ 81st and expressed gratitude to the Province, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), and the Habitat Housing Society for their substantial investments.
The completion of these affordable rental homes in Surrey brings critical support to families in need. It represents a significant step towards combating the ongoing housing challenges faced by communities, and particularly, vulnerable populations. The new housing options will undoubtedly improve the lives of those who have long struggled to find affordable accommodations.
With the Habitat @ 81st project, the government’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for affordable housing in Surrey remains evident. The collaboration between various stakeholders showcases the effectiveness of intergovernmental partnerships in addressing complex issues such as the housing crisis. As more homes are delivered or underway, individuals and families across the province can look forward to brighter futures in safe and affordable communities.
