In recognition of the need for supportive housing, Grey County acquired a 15,500 sq. ft. property at 396 14th Street West Owen Sound in January 2022 for the purpose of creating supportive housing units. The property will provide safe and stable housing and on-site supports  to 12 individuals on the Grey County By Name List that are experiencing homelessness. Currently, the By Name List has 120 individuals requiring housing and supports.Allan Avis Architects provided a schematic design that includes 12 supportive studio units, an office area for staff and community services, and a hub area for various uses. A request for proposal (RFP) for general contractor services closed July 26, 2022 and the bid for the renovation of the building is Owen Sound's JP Commercial Contractors, with a bid of $3,743,000.

Construction will start in August. County staff continues to work with City of Owen Sound staff toward site plan approval. Build completion is estimated at April 15, 2023. Under the terms of the funding agreement with the province, the project must be substantially complete by March 31, 2023.

This supportive housing project is key in providing individuals the opportunity to move to a supported living environment to learn skills, engage in community supports and develop relationships. These supports are imperative to a future successful independent tenancy.

A full report is in the Grey County Council Committee of the Whole agenda documents for August 11

 source: Grey County