The federal government has pitched in $9.6 million for the second phase of the O’Shea Place affordable housing project in upper Gibsons (formerly known as the Shaw Road project), which is currently under construction.
MP Patrick Weiler (West Vancouver–Sunshine Coast–Sea to Sky Country) made the announcement Aug. 13, on behalf of the federal housing minister.
The second phase of the affordable housing development is set to bring 33 rental homes and a childcare centre to Gibsons.
The four-storey building will offer a mix of bachelor, one, two, and three-bedroom units, with seven fully accessible homes and barrier-free common areas, according to a news release from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.
Phase 2 will also include a childcare centre with 43 spaces — 25 for children aged 30 months to school age, and 18 for before- and after-school care. The centre is supported by nearly $2.9 million from ChildCareBC’s New Spaces Fund, which has federal and provincial investments.
The Sunshine Coast Affordable Housing Society (SCAHS) will own and operate both the Phase 1 and Phase 2 buildings. Phase 1 opened in 2024 with 40 units for families, seniors, and individuals.
Funding for Phase Two includes the $9.6 million announced Wednesday, a $4.2 million BC Builds grant, $8.6 million in low-interest financing through BC Builds, and land valued at approximately $3 million provided by the Town of Gibsons.
Construction is expected to be completed in early 2026.
“This investment in Gibsons will create 33 new affordable homes and a childcare centre—providing local families with the stability and support they deserve,” said Weiler, in the release. “In partnership with the Sunshine Coast Affordable Housing Society, the Town of Gibsons, and the Province of British Columbia, we’re helping to address urgent housing needs and strengthen the infrastructure that supports a growing and vibrant Sunshine Coast.”
Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs for B.C., added, “Everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to call home, and with our government’s investment, more families, seniors and individuals will have a place to live that fits their budget and quality childcare,” in the release.
Local MLA Randene Neill called the development “great news for people in Gibsons,” in the release, and praised its impact on families, seniors, and individuals.
Mayor Silas White emphasised the importance of cooperation: “This project represents exactly the kind of collaboration our community needs to create real solutions to the housing crisis. By providing secure, affordable homes and new childcare spaces, Phase Two of 915 O’Shea not only helps individuals and families today, it strengthens Gibsons for the long term.”
SCAHS President Kim Darwin said, “O'Shea Place will create much-needed housing for our local workforce, families, and seniors — so they can continue to live, work, and retire here on the Coast. With the addition of an affordable daycare on site, this project will support the people who keep our community strong.”
Jordan Copp is Coast Reporter’s civic and Indigenous affairs reporter. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative.
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