NLHC spends $300,000 on modernization and improvement in St. John�s South area

Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC) will spend approximately $300,000 for modernization and improvement of two public housing buildings on Eric Street. Paul Shelley, Minister of Human Resources, Labour and Employment and Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC), and Tom Osborne, MHA for St. John�s South, made the announcement today.

"We recognize that a lack of investment over time has led to the poor physical condition of our property base and government has to make considerable and long-term strategic investments that significantly improve and extend the life and function of these properties in order to provide an affordable housing program for our clients,� said Minister Shelley.

Refurbishments and repairs are being completed on one 10-unit building and one eight-unit building for a total of 18 units that will have window replacement, as well as installation of exterior doors and vinyl siding.

"In addition to this work being an improvement for tenants, it is also an excellent investment for the local economy," commented Minister Osborne. "The revenues generated from the project will also assist local housing industry suppliers, so everyone wins."

The upgrading began mid-summer and will be completed by the end of November 2006. The repairs are being completed by NLHC�s own maintenance work forces from the Avalon Regional Office. This work is part of NLHC�s long-term preventative maintenance plan whereby each year the condition of all non-profit housing property is assessed, and maintenance and modernization needs are determined.

"It is vital that a pro-active and planned approach to maintenance remain the top priority of NLHC in order to prevent any further and unnecessary deterioration of our overall housing base," said Minister Shelley. "Modernization work such as this is long over due and overall improvements to the integrity of the housing program can only be accomplished by a focused and renewed commitment to both property enhancement and client service."

Media contact: Jenny Bowring, NLHC, (709) 724-3055

2006 09 14                                               2:35 p.m.