Toronto is set to see a significant addition to its urban landscape with the Indigenous affordable housing project at 140 Merton Street. This initiative, part of the Housing Now program, aims to address the housing crisis and provide affordable homes for Indigenous communities. For construction workers, this project offers numerous opportunities to engage with innovative building techniques and contribute to a socially impactful development. Here’s an in-depth look at the project, its construction phases, and the job prospects it offers.
The primary aim of the project is to provide affordable, safe, and culturally appropriate housing for Indigenous families and individuals. The development will also include community spaces designed to support social activities and cultural practices, fostering a sense of community among residents.
"When it comes to homelessness in Ontario and especially in Toronto - Indigenous people are very much overrepresented in homelessness. We also want to attract social enterprises and services that will help Indigenous seniors in terms of their health needs, and helping them with any kind of mental health, any kind of economic barriers, cultural barriers for them to really enjoy, you know, their senior years in the GTA and live a full, rewarding life."
General Manager of the Missanabie Cree Business Corporation | Joseph Sayers
Toronto Storeys reports that construction on the site is targeted for September 2024, according to a June 5 progress update from CreateTO. Once the site is prepared, the foundation work will begin. This involves extensive excavation and concrete pouring to ensure a stable base for the new buildings. Workers skilled in concrete work, heavy equipment operation, and structural engineering will be critical. Ensuring a solid foundation is essential for the stability and longevity of the new housing units.
The superstructure phase involves erecting the framework and constructing the core elements of the buildings. This stage demands precision and coordination among various trades, including steelworkers, carpenters, and masons. Key construction tasks will include building the multi-story residential structures and integrating them with the community spaces.
Once the superstructure is in place, attention will turn to interior finishing. This includes installing electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, drywall, painting, and flooring. This phase is labor-intensive, providing extensive employment opportunities for electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and other skilled tradespeople. High-quality finishes are essential to ensure the apartments are comfortable and ready for occupancy.
The project emphasizes sustainable construction practices. The use of energy-efficient systems and environmentally friendly materials will minimize the environmental impact. Construction workers involved in these aspects will gain valuable experience in green building techniques, increasingly important in the industry.
Economic and Community Impact
The construction of the Indigenous affordable housing project at 140 Merton Street is expected to create numerous jobs, significantly benefiting the local economy. From initial site preparation to final interior finishes, the project will employ a wide range of workers, including general laborers, skilled tradespeople, project managers, and site supervisors. This influx of jobs will provide a steady source of income for many families and stimulate local businesses.
Beyond immediate job creation, the project will enhance local infrastructure by providing modern, efficient, and accessible housing. The improvements will reduce maintenance costs, enhance community health and wellness, and improve the overall quality of life for residents. The upgraded facilities will support economic growth by attracting more residents and making the community more vibrant.
The development will feature approximately 294 affordable housing units, designed with the cultural and social needs of the Indigenous community in mind. The buildings will include:
- Community spaces such as meeting rooms
- Cultural activity areas
- Green spaces
These amenities are designed to foster community engagement and support cultural practices.
The Indigenous affordable housing project at 140 Merton Street represents a significant step forward for Toronto in addressing the housing crisis and supporting Indigenous communities. For construction workers, this project offers not only employment but also the chance to gain valuable experience with modern, sustainable construction techniques.
DataBid is currently reporting on this project - 140 Merton Street Apartment Building Midtown - Toronto (0075080922)