The B.C. government says it’s in the process of purchasing a motel in Courtenay to house people facing homelessness.
The province, through BC Housing, is submitting a temporary-use permit application to the City of Courtenay to turn the Super 8 motel into supportive housing for people residing at the nearby Travelodge, according to a release Monday.
The Super 8, located at 1885 Cliffe Ave., has 67 units, each with a washroom, and is down the street from the Travelodge at 2605 Cliffe Ave.
BC Housing says it has leased the latter since spring 2020 to offer people a safe place to stay amid the COVID-19 pandemic, but the lease is set to expire this June.
“BC Housing explored purchasing the Travelodge but was unable to come to acceptable terms with the owner,” reads the release. “The Comox Valley Transition Society (CVTS), which has been operating the Travelodge, will operate the Super 8 to ensure a seamless transition for residents.”
According to the province, the CVTS will have staff at the Super 8 24/7 to provide residents with support services, including daily meals, life-skills training and health and wellness services.
Residents are expected to start moving in next month, and the province, through BC Housing, will fund the purchase and operating costs of the building.
“I look forward to seeing tenants get settled in over the coming weeks so they can continue to have a safe, comfortable place they can call their own,” said Ronna-Rae Leonard, MLA for Courtenay-Comox, in the release.
“We want to make sure that these vulnerable people are not left homeless, which is why we made substantial efforts to purchase this hotel and create a valuable housing resource for the community,” added Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon.
People can learn more about plans for the Super 8 at a BC Housing information session happening Thursday, June 8, from 6-8 p.m. at Native Sons Hall on Cliffe Avenue.
“Once guests have moved in, BC Housing will begin exploring permanent housing options for the site and will engage with the community to discuss its long-term use,” reads the release.
Ethan Morneau
