Red Deer’s newest seniors affordable housing complex opens to tenants on Friday.
Geoff Olson, executive director of the Piper Creek Foundation, said the new building, called Creekside and located at 4707 34th St., is nearing capacity but there’s still room for a few more tenants.
“We’re virtually full right now (and that) is the best indication there’s a huge need for affordable housing for seniors in the city right now,” said Olson. “We have been just been inundated with calls about it. We’re really just trying to meet a housing need.”
Olson said if they built another 40-unit apartment building tomorrow, it would likely be filled right away.
“The need is huge,” said Olson.
Olson said on the seniors side, there is a need particularly at the apartment level. He said he is unsure what the next project is for Piper Creek Foundation but they may consider building another apartment complex for seniors.
The building was three years in the making and was designed for people aged 55 and above. Some of the features include pullout shelves with lower cabinets, barrier-free bathrooms with showers only, wide hallways and built-in benches in the showers.
Funding for the project came through an Affordable Housing grant from Alberta Municipal Affairs. The land was donated by the City of Red Deer.
An official grand opening will take place in the spring.
crhyno@www.reddeeradvocate.com