Residents in downtown Kelowna, B.C. have been displaced due to construction issues at a nearby tower being built by UBC Okanagan. The construction has caused cracks and stability issues in nearby buildings, leading to safety concerns and evacuation orders. Hadgraft Wilson Place, a subsidized housing complex for people with physical and cognitive challenges, was issued an evacuation order, resulting in the displacement of its residents. Tragically, one resident, Jim Hadgraft, who had Down syndrome, died this week from complications of a broken leg he sustained while being displaced.
In response to the displacement of residents from Hadgraft Wilson Place, the City of Kelowna announced that Okanagan College will temporarily open its new student housing building on KLO Road to accommodate the displaced residents. Pathways Abilities Society is finalizing a lease with Okanagan College, which will run until mid-August. The city hopes that this temporary housing solution will provide stability for the residents while they wait for the remediation of their building and figure out their next steps. The student housing building features a mix of individual rooms and common spaces, as well as suites matched to residents based on their unique needs.
Mayor Tom Dyas commended the collaborative effort made by the community to find a solution for the displaced residents of Hadgraft Wilson Place. City staff, alongside Pathways, BC Housing, and local developers, have been working diligently to provide options and alternatives for the residents during this trying time. The priority is to handle the situation with sensitivity, safety, and compassion, ensuring that the residents are taken care of and supported throughout the process. Global News has reached out to UBC Okanagan for comment on the situation.
Hadgraft Wilson Place, a subsidized housing complex with 68 affordable rental units, opened in June 2023. In early April, 84 residents were displaced after engineering reports revealed instability in a shoring wall at the construction site. While some settlement around construction projects is expected, the level of movement seen in this case was more than anticipated. Currently, the displaced residents are staying in hotels as they wait for a more permanent solution. Okanagan College president Neil Fassina expressed gratitude for the opportunity to assist the community by providing temporary housing in their new student housing building.
The tragic situation unfolding in downtown Kelowna highlights the importance of community support and collaboration during times of crisis. The initiative taken by Okanagan College, alongside Pathways Abilities Society and the City of Kelowna, to provide temporary housing for the displaced residents of Hadgraft Wilson Place demonstrates the power of local partnerships in addressing urgent needs. It is a reminder of the resilience and compassion that exists within communities, as different organizations and stakeholders come together to support those in need. The hope is that the temporary housing solution at Okanagan College will offer some comfort and stability to the displaced residents during this challenging time.
