The federal government will provide $4.9 million to upgrade and retrofit Tantalus Manor, as part of its commitment to housing affordability across Canada.
Upgrades include converting the building from gas to electrical heat to improve the building’s energy efficiency and climate resiliency. Builders will also replace all windows and doors, as well as installing energy recovery ventilators and heat pumps in each unit.
The renovations will lower energy costs for renters and extend the life of the building for another 20 years.
“Thank you to our partners, funders, the Squamish Nation, and our many allies. Your support helps more of our community members live more affordably within our traditional territory, close to essential services, and strengthens our ability to meet our shared goals,” said Sarah Silva, the chief executive officer of the Hiy̓ám̓ ta Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Housing Society.
Squamish Community Housing Society and the Hiy̓ám̓ ta Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Housing Society purchased the 40-unit rental property in 2024. The building is centrally located at 1098 Wilson Crescent, close to downtown, schools, and other amenities. The goal of the project is for 50 per cent of the units to provide homes for Sḵwx̱wú7mesh members living off reserve.
This announcement comes off the back of rental prices surging in Squamish over the past decade. According to the District of Squamish’s 2023 housing needs report, average rent has increased by over 129 per cent. Average rent, for purpose-built 1-bedroom units increased from $700 in 2012 to over $1300 in 2022.
“Housing is the top issue in our region, and perhaps the top issue from coast to coast to coast,” Patrick Weiler, the MP for West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country, said. “People who work here should be able to afford to live here and seniors should be able to stay close to the communities that they have helped to build.”
“This is practical, responsible work,” said Weiler. “It lowers emissions, strengthens resilience, and most importantly, improves the day-to-day lives of people that are living here.”
The project will start next month, and should be completed in late summer or fall, with minimal disruption to Tantalus Manor residents.
“We’re committed to doing this work with zero displacement and as limited impact as possible on your day-to-day lives,” said Sarah Ellis, the executive director of housing Squamish.
Vacancy rates remain some of the lowest in B.C. at only 0.1 per cent, according to the CMHC.
“So there’s more work ahead,” said Weiler. “But today’s a good day for Squamish and for our neighbors who call Tantalus Manor home.”
