Image: Mike Vanden Bosch / Pattison Media / B.C. Premier David Eby paid a visit to Chilliwack Tuesday afternoon (Mar. 19) to commemorate the imminent opening of the Paramount housing project on Yale Road, saying it will deliver affordable housing options for seniors and young adults.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Premier David Eby

Premier David Eby visits Chilliwack to commemorate new Paramount housing project

Mar 19, 2024 | 5:23 PM

CHILLIWACK — B.C. Premier David Eby paid a visit to Chilliwack Tuesday afternoon (Mar. 19) to commemorate the imminent opening of the Paramount housing project on Yale Road, saying it will deliver affordable housing options for seniors and young adults.

“We need to make sure Chilliwack stays a place where young people can put down roots and seniors on fixed incomes can live comfortably,” said Eby. “That’s why our government is supporting unique housing solutions like the Paramount. This affordable intergenerational housing complex for young adults who were formerly youth in care and seniors is the first of its kind in British Columbia and will provide residents with community, support and belonging.”

The Paramount is a six-storey project at 46187 Yale Rd. and will be available to adults between the ages of 19 and 25, and seniors with low to moderate incomes. Priority will be given to young adults who were formerly in care.

The building will now allow pets as well – up to two cats, or one dog less than 80 pounds.

“The Paramount project is another example of what can be achieved when all levels of government work together,” said Sean Fraser, federal Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities. “This partnership will help ensure that Chilliwack’s seniors and youth have safe and affordable homes where they can start new chapters. This is the National Housing Strategy at work and we will continue working to ensure that everyone from coast to coast to coast has a place to call their own.”

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In a government news release, the province claims the project follows an increasingly popular housing trend in North America, which is new to Chilliwack. The Paramount connects young adults leaving the child welfare system with seniors in the community. This project will enable an informal network of support between generations and address an established need for community and connections. The Chilliwack Community Services Society will explore community gathering and mentorship opportunities between young adults and senior residents.

“Affordable housing is essential for young people beginning to live on their own. This is especially true for young adults who are transitioning from government care and face higher risks of homelessness,” said Grace Lore, B.C.’s Minister of Children and Family Development. “The Paramount building is a new solution to an important challenge that builds a sense of community, while providing more homes for those who need them most.”

The Paramount is a partnership between the B.C. government and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, the City of Chilliwack and Chilliwack Community Services, which will operate the building. It contains commercial and residential spaces, as well as laundry and lounge spaces. Its studio, one- and two-bedroom units will have rents between $445 per month for a studio and $1,500 per month for a two-bedroom unit. Thirteen units are wheelchair accessible.

This project is part of a $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government. Since 2017, the province claims there are approximately 78,000 homes that have been delivered or are underway, including nearly 500 homes in the city of Chilliwack.