City purchased site for $11M adding to transitional housing portfolio

The city bought 1754 St. Joseph Blvd. from the Sisters of Charity of Ottawa to provide more transitional housing options.

The Orleans site is 26.1 acres and is in the Chapel Hill neighbourhood. It is served by public transit, access to shopping, employment and community and social services, a report from staff notes. The main building on the property has 70 rooms, semi-private and common bathrooms, offices, meeting rooms and a commercial kitchen.

Staff said it is “well-suited” to serve for transitional housing, which will help provide temporary accommodations for people while they get long-term homes.

It cost the city $11 million to acquire the property and it is set to be operational by early 2025.

“The city is facing unprecedented demands on all aspects of the transitional housing and shelter system. More people than ever before are accessing shelter services and transitional housing, many of whom are newcomers,” a press release reads. “Currently, newcomer clients make up 60 per cent of all single adult shelter clients.”

The building is expected to accommodate 150 people with initial clients to be primarily single adult newcomers. Due to the size of the building, staff say, onsite social services and programming can be offered.

“This investment will enhance our accommodation system, offering stability and support. By increasing our capacity, we’re ensuring that everyone in our community has a safe place to call home as we work towards long-term solutions,” Mayor Mark Sutcliffe said.