The federal government and its partners are investing more than $83 million to build 204 new affordable rental homes in downtown Calgary.

The funding, delivered through the Affordable Housing Fund, will support the conversion of an existing office building at 800 6 Avenue S.W. into a mixed-use residential development known as 800 Six West. The project will offer modern, affordable and accessible units and provide on-site support services through Carya Society of Calgary, including mental-health programs, counselling, financial wellness services, and community-building activities.

The announcement was made by Corey Hogan, MP for Calgary Confederation, on behalf of federal Housing and Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson, alongside City of Calgary officials and project partners.

Ottawa is investing $62 million in the project, while the city is furnishing $15 million, the Alberta Ecotrust Foundation is supplying $900,000 and developer Astra Group is investing $4.9 million.

“Our government is focused on delivering more homes for people in Calgary and across the country,” said Hogan. “Supporting the Affordable Housing Fund is how we turn commitment into results by investing in stronger, more resilient communities. I’m proud of our role in this project and the lasting difference it will make for families in this community,” said Hogan.

Labelled 800 Six West, the project is part of the city’s Downtown Development Incentive Program (DIP) whereby investors receive $75 per square foot to help convert underutilized office space to residential. (Conversions of other assets receive less from the city.)

“Calgarians urgently need continued investment in housing. We’re committed to working with our government and private partners to make that happen,” said Mayor Jeromy Farkas.

He called 800 Six West a powerful example of how partnerships are transforming the downtown and ensuring that all Calgarians have access to safe, affordable housing in welcoming and supportive communities.

Rod Ruff, CEO and president of the Alberta Ecotrust Foundation, said the project showcases how “innovation and collaboration can come together to make housing more affordable, lower emissions, and contribute to a city where everyone can thrive.”

Maxim Olshevsky, CEO of Astra Group and Peoplefirst Developments, called the project “a continued demonstration of how underutilized assets can be transformed into part of the housing solution through collaboration across public, private and non-profit sectors.”

Pictured: 800 Six

Photo: Astra