Transportation and Works
August 23, 2012

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

Renovations Enhance Affordable Housing Units on Bell Island

The Government and Newfoundland and Labrador continues to invest in affordable housing as Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC) awards contracts valued at $124,000 to renovate social housing units on Bell Island.

“As part of our annual modernization and improvement program, hundreds of affordable housing units are being renovated in communities across the province this year,” said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister Responsible for NLHC. “Providing modern and affordable social housing is a key to ensuring the well-being of people with low incomes, and we are making significant progress.”

Ken Mar Ltd. has been awarded a contract valued at $75,000 to renovate two units while G.S. Hunt was awarded a contract valued at $49,000 to renovate two units. Renovations for both projects include siding, window, roofing, exterior door, and ventilation system replacements, for improved energy efficiency. These types of building renovation projects support the commitments in the Provincial Government’s action plans focused on climate change and energy efficiency approaches. Repairs to steps, decks and ramps will also be completed.

“This new work is among several social housing renovations and improvement projects underway on Bell Island this summer,” said David Brazil, MHA for Conception Bay East-Bell Island. “I am pleased to see this investment in maintaining affordable homes for families and individuals with low incomes in our community.”

A Social Housing Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador – Secure Foundations, released by the Provincial Government in August 2009, outlines a 10-year 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.

- 30 -

Media contacts:

2012 08 23                                      10:15 a.m.