Greystone resident Carla Hatcher is thrilled to see millions of dollars worth of renovations flood into her neighbourhood.
“It’s going to make it look like we’re rich instead of poor,” said Hatcher, who has lived in Greystone since she was three years old.
Construction has already started on the social housing units in Spryfield. It will receive $5.9 million from the federal and provincial governments.
Federal Minister Peter MacKay and provincial Minister of Community Services Denise Peterson-Rafuse made the announcement in Spryfield yesterday.
In all, $14 million will be spent on affordable housing throughout the HRM.
Greystone is getting new siding, new roofs, windows, doors and kitchen upgrades to 246 units.
“They’re liveable obviously, but over the years you see changes that they’re doing and this is the best one yet,” said Hatcher.
“The outcome is going to be wonderful for the community and show people we want it to look better.”
Construction on a new, $3.15-million, 15-unit building in Spryfield is also underway. The Ida Mae Marriott project is gutting six existing units and adding 15 new ones for disabled people and seniors.
The new building will be open next summer while the improvements to Greystone will be complete by March 31, 2011.
The other $5 million will be spread around to 10 other housing projects in the HRM.
“It’s a good way for the local economy to get going because it puts construction workers to work early in the season,” MacKay said.
“These investments will give hope to residents in the Halifax region who need quality, affordable housing.”
The aim of the repairs is to make the infrastructure energy efficient and safer. MacKay said improvements will be made to electrical, plumbing and fire safety systems.
Up for renovation
Spryfield
• Greystone —$5.9 million
• Ida Mae Marriott — $3.15 million
Projects sharing $5 million:
Halifax
• Acadia Square Lodge-North
• Ahern Manor
• Joseph Howe Manor
• Nova Court
• Sir John Thompson Manor
• Uniacke Square Family
• Flip Flop Housing Cooperative
• Maria’s Housing Cooperative Ltd.
• Alliance Housing Cooperative
Dartmouth
• Alderney Manor
