The Edwards is expected to open later this year, providing affordable housing for seniors in Lethbridge. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Affordable seniors housing project in Lethbridge gets $2.2 million from province

May 10, 2024 | 12:34 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – A new affordable housing option for seniors is set to open in the coming months.

The Government of Alberta has announced $66 million in funding for several housing initiatives across the province. That includes $2.2 million for CONCEPT Investment Partners to create affordable, accessible housing in Lethbridge.

CONCEPT Managing Partner Ken Harvie was on hand at The Edwards on 1730 10 Avenue South for the grand unveiling.

Formerly known as the Seasons Lethbridge Retirement Community building, he says they will create 50 units of housing, 37 of which will be considered affordable. It will also have a small grocery or convenience store inside.

Harvie says renovating the facility is a significant undertaking.

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“Without saying it’s completely gutted, a lot of things are actually being moved around, repositioned, new mechanical systems, new insulation where we need it, updated electrical so that we’re more efficient and reducing our [carbon] footprint. Then it’s all brand new kitchens in every suite and brand new cabinetry in every suite, flooring, painting, new light fixtures, and new common room updates,” says Harvie.

He adds that it will also be beneficials for the senior tenants being located directly across from Chinook Regional Hospital, as some of whom will have more frequent medical appointments and may not drive.

In addition to the province’s financial commitment, the City of Lethbridge approved $1,295,000 for The Edwards back in October 2023. The total estimated cost of the project is $6,250,000.

Housing Solutions Coordinator with the City of Lethbridge Matthew Pitcher explains that the two batches of funding helps to lower the capital cost of CONCEPT’s work. In exchange, the developer has signed a 20-year commitment to keep the rental rates at affordable levels.

Affordable, under the City’s definition, means no more than 30 per cent of a household’s income, based on provincial thresholds.

Pitcher says the City has long struggled to keep up with the supply of affordable housing, adding that this will go a long way in supporting residents.

“It’s 37 individuals and families that are able to afford rent, and I think what we’re seeing now is a growing number of families who are feeling the pinch. Economic factors across the country, interest rates are just making housing less and less affordable,” says Pitcher. “We’re really just trying to tackle where we can.”

Harvie says they plan to open application for units within the next 30-45 days. The first units are expected to be move-in ready in July or early August this year.

The Edwards, formerly the Seasons Lethbridge Retirement Community, is expected to open its first units this summer. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

READ MORE: Lethbridge City Council approves affordable & social housing developments

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