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

Renovations Continue for St. John’s Social Housing Properties

Upgrades to social housing on Empire Place in St. John’s will continue with major renovations to four homes expected to begin this month.

“I am delighted to see this work proceeding which complements the upgrades that have already been completed on Empire Place,” said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. “Newfoundland and Labrador Housing is taking every opportunity to invest significant funds to enhance older social housing throughout the province.”

Xtreme Renos and Construction Ltd. has been awarded a contract valued at $331,000 to complete the work, which will include installing new windows, doors, siding, roofing, landings, ventilation systems, and basement insulation. The work is expected to be completed by August 2012.

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 21             3:20 p.m.