The Provincial and Federal Governments, through Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, are investing a total of $740,000 toward the ongoing revitalization of 24 social housing properties in the Rabbittown area of St. John’s. The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, made the announcement today at the Rabbittown Community Centre in St. John’s.

“I am pleased to announce these federal and provincial investments toward the revitalization of this neighbourhood. This funding has enabled us to increase the lifespan of these properties, and make them more comfortable for individuals and families.”
– The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

A federal and provincial cost-shared investment of $503,000 will provide exterior renovations to 16 homes on Empire and Hoyles Avenues. This work is being funded through the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Agreement for Investment in Affordable Housing which has helped stimulate local economies in communities throughout the province. The Provincial Government, through Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, is investing an additional $237,000 to renovate another eight dwellings on Empire Avenue.

Bursey Cleaners (2010) Limited has been awarded a $356,000 contract to provide exterior renovations to 12 units on Empire Avenue and Hoyles Avenue. The work will include roofing, siding, window and door replacements, and upgrading electrical, plumbing and ventilation systems.

A second contract for $384,000 has been awarded to Ravencor Projects Inc. to carry out similar exterior renovations and upgrades to 12 additional homes also on Empire and Hoyles Avenues. The anticipated completion date for both of the above contracts is January 2016.

QUICK FACTS

• The Governments of Canada and Newfoundland and Labrador today announced a cost-shared investment of $503,000 to provide renovations to 16 social housing homes located in St. John’s.
• Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation is investing an additional $237,000 to renovate eight units in a building on Empire Avenue, bringing the total to $740,000.
• Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation is the province’s largest landlord, with 5,584 rental units province-wide.
• Since 2007, close to 77 per cent of Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation’s rental units have received modernization and improvement that will extend the life of the properties.

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Media contacts:

Heather May
Director of Communications
Department of Seniors, Wellness and Social Development
709-729-0928, 697-5061
heathermay@gov.nl.ca

Jenny Bowring
Communications Manager
Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation
709-724-3055
jmbowring@nlhc.nl.ca