The Jasper Wildfire Complex has not significantly impacted the timeline of the Connaught affordable housing development.
Jasper Municipal Council heard this status update during its regular meeting on Tuesday (Sept. 10).
“The wildfire has not impacted the ability of the working group to proceed with the project, and although there may be slight delays as a result of the fire, construction is still anticipated to begin in the spring of 2025,” said Leanne Pelletier, municipal housing co-ordinator.
“Administration and the contractor will continue to assess the project schedule and pricing going forward for any impacts as a result of the wildfire.”
Located along Connaught Drive on Parcel HJ, the development will feature a 40-unit apartment building, comprised of 20 one-bedroom units and 20 two-bedroom units.
The need for housing has become more pressing as Jasper is estimated to have lost 820 residential units during the wildfire.
“Understanding the impact of the Jasper Wildfire Complex on local housing, stakeholders are committed to the project and recognize the importance of moving it along quickly to address community needs,” Pelletier said.
Planning and investment for this project commenced in 2018, including servicing the lot in anticipation of development. Work is being led by the Jasper Community Housing Corporation and municipal administration.
“The Connaught development is designed to meet affordability standards at both the provincial and federal levels, with all rent set below median market rates,” Pelletier said.
“The project prioritizes accessibility and energy efficiency, representing inclusive and sustainable community living.”
The project has received $6.5 million from the Affordable Housing Partnership Program, and additional funding is being secured through federals sources.
Recently, the project management team was selected, and a final review of the design-build contract has been completed. The project's design phase is now set to commence.
Construction is expected to begin in early spring 2025 and has a target completion date of Aug. 31, 2026.
Coun. Ralph Melnyk thanked Pelletier for providing the update, saying he was happy that shovels would be in the ground by spring.
“If everything comes together, basically, in about two years from now, we should have 40 additional units, which will certainly help tremendously as we continue to redevelop and add additional rebuilds here in the community for accommodation and other businesses that were lost during the wildfire,” he added.
