Theia Partners has gained Ottawa city council approval for a new two-building multi-residential project in the downtown core.

Located at 30 Cleary Avenue, the project, named Odayanhaway (Little Village), is a sustainable, transit-oriented infill development. It will provide housing for approximately 200 individuals and families.

Theia is collaborating with the First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa (FirstU) and Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services (OAHS) on the venture.

The project will transform a currently underutilized parking lot near the Ottawa River and a light-rail station into a vibrant, inclusive community, said Theia.

“This project represents a unique model for sustainable and community-driven development,” said Rodney Wilts a partner at Theia.

Odayanhaway will include two buildings: A 16-storey high-rise jointly owned by FirstU and Theia with 148 market-affordable units, and a six-storey building with 66 units, owned and operated by OAHS, designated for Indigenous individuals and families.

“We’re creating deeply affordable homes for the people who need them most,” noted Chuck Shields, president of FirstU, who emphasized the importance of FirstU’s land donation as part of the group’s commitment to reconciliation.

Justin Marchand, CEO of OAHS, added: “Our building will provide culturally appropriate housing for Indigenous families and will help address a critical shortage in Ottawa.”

The project, designed to meet high environmental standards, will feature geothermal heating and cooling along with sustainable design elements to reduce its carbon footprint. With construction set to begin in summer 2025 and a projected completion date in 2028, Odayanhaway aims to set a new benchmark in sustainable affordable housing.

Theia is a leading development firm located in the National Capital Region. The company focuses on values-based real estate and renewable energy developments. Wilts, Jeff Westeinde, Scott Demark and Peter Busby comprise Theia’s partnership group.

They are the innovators behind the Zibi development, a 34-acre waterfront community that straddles Ottawa and neighbouring Gatineau, Que. Zibi includes a myriad of mixed-use projects and is considered a model of sustainability.

Founded in 1898, FirstU is a diverse, multi-generational religious community built on a variety of philosophical and faith traditions. 

OAHS, founded in 1994, provides urban and rural Indigenous communities with culturally safe and affordable housing throughout Ontario.

Rendering: CNW Group/Theia Partners