In what it calls a “significant milestone in the community’s efforts to end homelessness”, the City of Brandon, in partnership with the Province of Manitoba, has released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the development and operation of new transitional and supportive housing at 705 Rideau St.
In a release, the city said they had identified 705 Rideau St. as a key location for supportive housing, because it is close essential services, transit, and community amenities, including the Brandon Regional Health Centre and nearby greenspaces. They said they envision a multi-family dwelling there with as many as 48 units as well as “integrated supports to serve vulnerable populations in the community.”
The city also said they were offering the future construction site (which is municipally owned) for $1 to anyone developing the site for a project designed to support individuals experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness, with a focus on trauma-informed and culturally appropriate supports.
“Supportive housing is about more than providing a roof over someone’s head, it’s about creating the conditions for success through stability, security and independence, so more Manitobans can thrive,” said Minister Bernadette Smith, Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness of Manitoba. “Our government is proud to be supporting the city of Brandon as we continue this historic surge in affordable housing across Manitoba.”
“This is an important step forward for Brandon,” said Mayor Jeff Fawcett. “By working together with all levels of government, we are creating real opportunities to deliver housing with supports that meet people where they are and help them move toward long-term stability. This demonstrates a strong and coordinated partnership to deliver much-needed housing solutions.”
The release added that both the city and province are seeking proposals from qualified nonprofit organizations or Indigenous governments.
Brandon celebrated a ground-breaking ceremony earlier this month for a downtown housing project that will have 72 units when completed.
