The economic situation in Northwestern British Columbia improved considerably between 2010 and 2014 as new major industrial projects proposed – hydro transmission lines, pipelines, LNG facilities, mines and container ports. Some projects are underway, and some await environmental approvals and final investment decisions.
In Terrace, two temporary worker camps are in operation, while three hotels, one large residential complex and several smaller townhouse projects are in the advanced planning stages. Northwest Community College, with its main campus in Terrace, continues to increase its trades-related courses, drawing students from throughout BC.
Resource and industry development has also impacted the affordability of Terrace’s housing market. If major industrial proposals do proceed, the housing market could deteriorate even further as more people relocate or return to Terrace, which would further increase home prices and rents.
In response to the changes, Northern Development Initiatives Trust (NDIT) initiated the preparation of the Terrace Housing Action Plan, concurrent to the preparation of other Housing Action Plans in the region (Kitimat, Prince Rupert, and Port Edward). The development of these plans were guided by a Steering Committee comprised of senior staff of the respective municipalities, BC Housing, and the Housing Policy Branch.
As part of the Terrace Housing Action Plan, CitySpaces undertook extensive consultation with stakeholders, the City, builders and realtors. Housing indicators were researched an analyzed, and housing needs and gaps were identified specific to the context of “low growth”, “moderate growth”, and “high growth” scenarios. Three deliverables were produced: an evidence based needs report, stakeholder consultation report, and the Terrace Housing Action Plan.
Eighteen recommendations were prepared for the Terrace Housing Action Plan. Implementation roles were identified for the municipality, the Province, agencies, and community-based organizations. The Terrace Housing Action Plan recommendations included finding and acquiring public-owned land suitable for an additional student residence, and restrict Living Out Allowances to help control the rental prices in the community.
PROJECT TEAM:
Linda Allen Jada Basi Joanna Gauld