A possible NZER affordable housing project for seniors in Winnipeg

Harriet Street Senior Housing Inc. will complete a series of preliminary activities to support the feasibility of a new, NZER (net zero energy ready), accessible 50-unit construction for seniors. The selected site will be close to key amenities such as groceries, pharmacies and public transit. Harriet Street Senior Housing Inc. will consult with city planners and council for permits, while an architect will provide initial thoughts on construction methods, materials and suitable energy-efficient options for the chosen site. An environmental specialist will conduct a review of the site and the potential for geothermal production and solar photovoltaics. The results from this assessment will help the organization access additional GMF funding for a study and subsequent capital project. Innovative aspect(s): Although this project is still in the early stages of development, the subsequent capital project could be one of the first NZER affordable senior housing developments in Canada. Replicability: The activities funded by this planning grant as well as the subsequent study will result in valuable input for the urban senior affordable housing sector in Canada. This sector faces the combined challenges of accessibility, long-term affordability and negotiation of permits within a city environment. Affordability: Targeting NZER will allow the organization to maintain long-term affordability based on lower utility, operational and maintenance costs as well as a more sustainable mechanical structure with fewer potential maintenance requirements over time. The organization also plans to include tenant training on NZER to promote tenant engagement and behavioral change to optimize the building’s energy performance. (Project description from original funding application)