Five supportive housing sites in Edmonton for residents experiencing homelessness won’t be ready this winter as initially targeted.

The city’s first five permanent, supportive housing developments totalling 210 units are now expected to be finished early next year and open in the spring.

During a year-end construction update Tuesday, infrastructure services deputy city manager Adam Laughlin said the end-of-2021 completion timeline was an aggressive target in line with the federal grant program. But labour and supply-chain disruptions affecting the construction industry during the COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on the projects, leading to longer wait times for materials.

When open in the new year, the five developments will provide a long-term home and wraparound services for more than 200 Edmontonians who are experiencing homelessness and need support to maintain their housing. On-site supports will include 24-7 crisis services, mental health supports and financial management assistance. The sites are located in Inglewood, Terrace Heights, Westmount, Wellington and King Edward Park.

“The pandemic has illustrated the critical role that housing plays in ensuring the health and safety of individuals, their community and Edmonton as a whole,” Laughlin told reporters. “Right now, there are more than 2,800 people with no permanent home, about 1,200 sleeping in shelters or outside each night. It is possible to end homelessness through adequate housing and support.”

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