Limestone City Co-operative Housing to make big request of the city

Project addresses affordable housing, climate change, and food insecurity

Limestone City Co-operative Housing is seeking $2.29 million from the City of Kingston over the next three years. 

The Whig Standard reports the funds will cover budget estimates and schematic drawings, which are needed to apply for federal housing funding.

The co-op plans to build a 14-storey, 248-unit building at Division Street and Elliott Avenue. The $115 million project will be constructed with wood and feature solar panels, making it a zero-energy building. A vertical farm will provide fresh produce to residents and the community.

Councillor Jeff McLaren, who sits on the co-op's board, told the Whig, the project aligns with city priorities like affordable housing, climate change, and food insecurity. 

The building will operate as a non-profit co-op where residents can work on the farm for reduced rent.

The co-op will apply for funding from the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation, but the group says city support is essential to move forward.