Temporary modulars set up for Vancouver homeless

November 8, 2017

The City of Vancouver is rushing to erect modular homes in an effort to house the city’s expanding homeless population before winter sets in.
In October, 78 modular homes were being erected on a Cambie Street site owned by Onni Group, a major city developer. They are the first of an estimated 600 units of temporary modular homes the city plans to build under a $66 million commitment from the provincial government.
The temporary structures are being built on vacant city land and private land that can be used for these short-term homes.
Two buildings, which will contain 39 units each and be constructed by Horizon North, are planned for the first site. Each home will be approximately 250 square feet and contain a bathroom and kitchen. The buildings will also include amenity space and laundry facilities for all tenants to use. It is anticipated the first building will open in early January 2018. 
In a homeless person count in Vancouver, it was found that there were 3,605 people living in makeshift shelters on streets or in parks, up 30 per cent from the last count in 2014.