City council approved changes to the Official Community Plan on Monday to pave the way for a 250-unit housing complex at 1919 17th Ave.
The Aboriginal Housing Society of Prince George is looking to develop an "urban Aboriginal community" on the 6.8-acre site near Winnipeg Street. In addition to a mix of row houses and low-rise apartments, the society is planning an open gathering space, community kitchen, educational programing space, childcare facility, sweat lodge and space for a variety of cultural and recreational activities.
"I think the village concept is perfect," Coun. Cori Ramsay said. "It's just going to be such an incredible benefit to our community."
Katy Fabris, senior project manager for consulting agency M'akola Development Services, said construction could begin this year on the project.
Aboriginal Housing Society executive director Christos Vardacostas said the goal of the project is "that this community be representative of all the things it means to be well."
The society is looking at the complex as a way to address needs in the community over the long-term, he said.
"We're trying to think of everything that could be a future use of this space," he said.
City councillors were effusive in their praise of the proposed project.
The location is an ideal fit with the surrounding community, Coun. Terri McConnachie said.
"I think it's an incredible project," Coun. Kyle Sampson said. "I think it's a game-changer for Prince George."
