The following is being distributed at the request of Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation:

Corner Brook Social Housing Buildings to be Painted

Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation has awarded a $212,000 contract to R & D Construction Ltd. to paint the exteriors of 11 social housing buildings in the Crestview Avenue neighbourhood of Corner Brook.

“This work is part of the ongoing revitalization of the Crestview Avenue area, along with a significant number of other affordable social housing unit upgrades throughout the province,” said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. “At the end of 2012, Newfoundland and Labrador Housing will have completed renovations on nearly half of the 24 buildings in the Crestview Avenue area.”

The buildings contain 87 affordable units and will be painted next spring.

“I am delighted to see this investment in this neighbourhood, which will give these homes a much longer lifespan and increase the comfort of the families who live in them,” said Vaughn Granter, MHA for Humber West. “Already much work has been accomplished in this neighbourhood such as installing new siding, windows and roofs, insulating basements and replacing fencing, along with various other work that has greatly complemented the revitalization.”

A Social Housing Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador - Secure Foundations, released by the Provincial Government in August 2009, outlines a long-term vision for social housing. It is aimed at improving the housing circumstances of low-income households and helping to create healthier communities. Budget 2011 Standing Strong: For Prosperity. For Our Future. For Newfoundland and Labrador allocated $25.9 million for social housing infrastructure, including $10.4 million for maintenance and $12 million for renovations and improvements.

Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation is the province’s largest landlord with approximately 5,573 non-profit social housing dwellings province-wide.

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2011 11 14                11:10 a.m.