UWinnipeg Commons, 360 Colony Street (HANDOUT)
WINNIPEG — Construction is underway on a new 112,000 square foot apartment complex in downtown Winnipeg.
UWinnipeg Commons will have 102 apartments ranging from one to three bedroom units. The mixed-use complex is aimed at providing affordable housing for post-secondary students in the area.
Instead of the traditional ground breaking ceremony, government and university officials hammered nails into a board to signal the start of construction on Monday.
“We are pleased to partner with the university to offer an exciting, affordable housing option for students close to campus,” said Premier Greg Selinger. “The students and families who live here will enrich the neighbourhood and provide an economic boost for local businesses.”
Forty-six of the apartments will be reserved for students with families to attend the U of W, with 32 of those being offered on a rent geared to income basis. The remaining 56 will be offered to the community at large at market rents, 18 of which will be considered premium units.
The $30 million project is being funded by the province, city and private donors.
Construction is expected to be completed by fall 2016 occupancy.
