New Port Alberni housing complex offers affordable homes and cultural space for Indigenous families

A new 35-unit housing complex, Citaapi Mahtii, has opened in Port Alberni, providing affordable rental homes for Indigenous people in the Alberni Valley.

Originally published by cheknews.ca

The province announced Friday the four-storey wood frame building at 4210 Cedarwood Street. features a mix of homes ranging from studios to four-bedroom unit.

The site also includes a playground, an outdoor gathering centre and a cultural centre for teachings, activities, events and celebrations.

“These homes reflect the strength of partnership and the importance of community-led housing solutions,” said Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs Christine Boyle in a release. “We’re proud to support the Ahousaht First Nation in creating safe, affordable homes that honour the needs of families and Elders.”

The building is owned and operated by Citaapi Mahtii Housing Society and will primarily serve members of Ahousaht First Nation with low and moderate incomes. The building is within walking distance of a playground, recreation centre and high school. Services and amenities, including public transit, parks, a public library, grocery stores and medical facilities, are also nearby, said the Province.

The province, through BC Housing, contributed $6.4 million for the project, with $4.2 million from the Building B.C.: Community Housing Fund and $2.2 million in a cost-pressure grant. The province is also providing nearly $460,000 in annual operating funding while the City of Port Alberni provided the land, valued at almost $600,000.

People are expected to begin moving in by November 2025.