In August 2016, Peel Region issued a request for expression of interest to identify those who may be interested in developing affordable housing projects within Peel. Brampton Bramalea Christian Fellowship, Inc. submitted a response to the request for proposal.
The request for proposals closed 4 months later and Regional Council signed the agreement with BBCFR Ltd. in the spring of 2017.
Construction began in April 2019 and finished in 2021, with the City of Brampton issuing an occupancy permit February 2021.
“The drive to develop affordable housing at the BBCFR site started well over a decade ago,” said Randy Neilson, Pastor at BCF Church. “We recognized the great need for affordable housing and thought that we could use some of our property to help others with housing. We are very blessed that we were awarded the Regional funding for this project.
BBCFR was able to develop a 6-storey mid-rise rental building located at 11655 Bramalea Road, Brampton with 90 units. 45 of the units are being rented at 60% of average market rent for residents on the Peel Region’s centralized wait list.
“Working with community partners strengthens Peel’s working relationships with local agencies,” Steve Dickson, Director of the Housing Development Office said. “We’re very pleased we were able to support this third-party led project.”
Peel partnered with the federal and provincial governments to help fund this third-party project. BBCFR Ltd. provided $1,400,000 in equity while Peel invested $4,228,255 into the project.
Offering accessible units
29 of the 90 units are accessible, which means they offer a turning radius in the kitchen and bathrooms for residents who require the use of a walker or wheelchair. Grab bars may also be installed in the washroom if desired.
2 of the accessible units are also barrier free, which means they each have a fully accessible stove top and wall oven in the kitchen, a roll-in shower and roll-under vanity in the bathroom and have push-button entry into the unit.
Importance of partnerships
Third-party led projects like the Brampton Bramalea Christian Fellowship Residences Ltd. are made possible by meaningful partnerships with government and community agencies.
“Working with Peel on BBCFR Ltd. was a great experience,” Neilson said. “Thank you, Regional Housing Development team! Together, we’re adding great value to our community.”
For more information contact housing development.
