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

Social Housing Renovations Underway in Corner Brook

Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC) has awarded $119,000 in contracts for the renovation of 36 social housing units in Corner Brook.

“Part of this investment will contribute to the ongoing rejuvenation of the Crestview Avenue neighbourhood, a process which is greatly enhancing affordable homes in the area,” said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister Responsible for NLHC. “Renovations such as these provide immediate benefits to tenants, and these benefits can be seen throughout the province as this government continues to upgrade social housing units.”

A contract valued at $83,000 has been awarded to Kent Building Supplies for materials to renovate 34 social housing units in the Crestview Avenue neighbourhood. These renovations will be done by NLHC staff and will include window, door, siding and roof replacement. In addition, EJB Contracting Ltd. was awarded a contract valued at $36,000 to carry out renovations including siding, window, door and ventilation system replacements on two units on Brosnan Street. New energy saving air exchangers will also be installed in all 36 homes.

“I am delighted to see these modernization and improvement upgrades going ahead,” said Vaughn Granter, MHA for Humber West. “Social housing in Corner Brook has come a long way over the past number of years as Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation continues to upgrade homes for people with the greatest need.”

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 create healthier communities.

Budget 2012: People and Prosperity 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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2012 05 22                                11:05 a.m.