City of Windsor scraps site for new homelessness hub over cost, will keep looking for location | CBC News

The City of Windsor announced on Monday a decision to halt efforts to acquire land in the area of Wellington Avenue, where it had plans to create a $50-million homelessness and housing hub.

The city says following a review, the 700 Wellington Avenue land acquisition would be too expensive.

“After a thorough due-diligence review of all factors required to deliver a successful project at this location, it has been determined that the costs associated with land acquisition would be too expensive for the city’s specific intended use,” the city said in a statement.

City council originally selected the vacant, 2.8-hectare site in hopes of setting up permanent supportive housing units, and supports for those with mental health issues, addiction and homelessness. 

The project was announed in April. Officials said it would take at least three years to open.

The cost was pegged at least $50 million, and the city said the site would include 64 single-bed supportive housing units.

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens says council remains committed to “securing the appropriate site and getting this right.”

“We have made significant investments in the temporary H4 by expanding hours, enhancing services, and increasing access,” he said. “We did our due diligence on the property and have determined that land acquisition costs would exceed our identified budget.” 

The city says in a statement that the search for a new and permanent site will continue, which will allow for the involvement of other services, such as the Downtown Mission, to all be in one site.