May 13, 2016 – Today the federal government, announced more than $32.6 million through the Canada Greener Affordable Housing Program (CGAH) to repair and retrofit 269 homes in two locations in Coquitlam. Upgrades include the installation of doubled-paned windows, new heat pumps, energy recovery ventilators, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and rooftop solar panels. In addition to reduced energy costs, many of these upgrades will also result in greater comfort and safety for residents during extreme weather events.
The announcement was made by Zoe Royer, Member of Parliament for Port Moody-Coquitlam, on behalf of the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada alongside Michelle Cooper-Iversen, Chief Operating Officer of Community Land Trust.
“Our Government is committed to helping communities reduce energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions, while upgrading their aging housing stock,” said Royer. “This project will extend the life of more than 290 homes in these two projects, making them more sustainable, affordable, and comfortable for current and future residents.”
“These key upgrades will improve the sustainability of these homes for both current and future resident members, while reducing operating costs,” said Cooper-Iversen. “When it comes to keeping housing affordable, extending the lifespan of existing buildings is crucial. Funding programs like CGAH are vital to this effort.”
The 2024 acquisition of these two housing co-operatives by the Community Land Trust—supported by the Province through the Rental Protection Fund and by the City of Coquitlam—was a critical step in making sure resident members could stay in their homes and remain part of this community.
“Today, CMHC’s support through the CGAH Program builds on that earlier work,” contined Cooper-Iversen.”It reflects a continued commitment to housing co-operatives—not just to secure them, but to reinvest in them so they remain sustainable, energy-efficient, and comfortable homes for residents for decades to come. As we look to build and sustain affordable housing options, it’s important to remember that the most affordable housing is housing that already exists. Many aging buildings require significant renovations in order to remain viable for the residents who have built their lives and communities in these co-ops. Investing in existing homes allows people to stay where they belong, at rents they can afford, while strengthening the long-term housing ecosystem.”
The Canada Greener Affordable Housing Program provided $1.2 billion to make multi-unit rental housing serving low- and moderate-income households more energy efficient and environmentally friendly. Garden Court Housing Co-op has received $11.3 million and Packard Housing Co-op has received $21.3 million from these funds. Community Land Trust has contibuted a combined $5.9 million.
