The B.C. government says seniors in Merritt will soon benefit from new rental homes that are under construction in the community.

The new 44-unit apartment building at 2230 Quilchena Avenue will be operated by the ASK Wellness Society and its meant for people over the age of 55 with moderate and low incomes. The government says there will be studio, one-bedroom, and accessible apartments within the four-storey building.

“These new homes will help seniors live independently and stay connected to their community,” said David Eby, Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing. “Providing homes people can afford in every corner of the province is our goal, and today’s announcement is great news for these seniors and for the broader community.”

ASK Wellness Society is getting about $4.7 million from the province towards this project.

“We are very excited for what this new housing will provide to the City of Merritt, in particular those who have found it challenging to find safe and affordable housing,” Executive Director, Bob Hughes, added. “After 14 years of operations in Merritt, we have seen the growing gap in accessible housing for seniors, and with Cedar Terrace we are narrowing that gap.”

The government says construction on this housing project is expected to be complete in summer 2022.

“I am thrilled about this project,” Mayor Linda Brown said, in a statement. “I have heard from so many seniors who desperately need quality, affordable housing and couldn’t be happier to see this project move forward in our community.”