More affordable housing on the way for Banff

The YWCA Banff Courtyard project will provide affordable housing for Banff-area residents with low income and those in need of barrier-free living.

With units ranging from studios to four-bedroom apartments, the three-storey building is designed to meet a variety of needs – from women moving out of transitional housing to extended families in need of an affordable place to call home. Tenants will also have access to programs offered by YWCA Banff.

“I am so pleased to see construction on the Courtyard project is underway. This is an important project for Banff, and I know residents are eager to see more affordable homes open and available. Alberta’s government remains committed to providing affordable homes in communities like Banff.”

“We are thrilled to see this project moving ahead, mobilizing an investment in one of the top priorities for the Town of Banff. The YWCA Courtyard Project will help meet a critical need for high-quality affordable rental options for individuals and families who face challenges finding a place to call home. Our community will get stronger. This project will raise the quality of life for so many people who work here, and that will benefit all Albertans and Canadians who visit this special place in the mountains.”

“YWCA Banff is grateful for the support of the federal, provincial and municipal governments and their investments in our commitment to bring affordable housing to our community. Our innovative housing model will create secure, stable homes for women, families, and people with accessibility needs, and other people who face barriers to finding suitable housing in Banff.”

Alberta’s Recovery Plan is a bold, ambitious long-term strategy to build, diversify, and create tens of thousands of jobs now. By building schools, roads and other core infrastructure, we are benefiting our communities. By diversifying our economy and attracting investment with Canada’s most competitive tax environment, we are putting Alberta on a path for a generation of growth. Alberta came together to save lives by flattening the curve, and now we must do the same to save livelihoods, grow, and thrive.

Quick facts

• Alberta’s government will contribute $2.6 million toward this project. The total cost of the project is expected to be about $7 million.
• This sustainable project, made from shipping containers, will also be cost-effective for tenants and the housing provider, thanks to its net-zero energy footprint. It is on schedule to welcome tenants in October 2021.
• This project is part of the more than $10 billion infrastructure spending announced under Alberta’s Recovery Plan.
• This spending includes:
  • $6.9 billion Budget 2020 capital spending
  • $980 million accelerated for Capital Maintenance and Renewal
  • $200 million for Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program and water infrastructure projects
  • $600 million in strategic infrastructure projects and $500 million in municipal infrastructure
  • $1.5 billion for Keystone XL