News
Affordable homes for vulnerable women, children on the way in Courtenay
October 4, 2023
Vulnerable women, their children and families in Courteney will soon have access to 48 new affordable rental homes as construction has started on a new development.
"These new homes will give vulnerable women and their children security and stability, while having a long term, positive impact on the Courtenay community," said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing. "Our government is proud to work in partnership to deliver homes like these that help people live a happier, healthier life."
The new building will provide permanent housing for women and gender-diverse people leaving violence, including transgender women, Two-Spirit and non-binary people, along with their children and other vulnerable individuals who are ready to leave second-stage housing.
The housing will be operated by the Comox Valley Transition Society (CVTS), which supports people leaving abuse, working toward recovery or overcoming trauma. CVTS also operates second-stage housing for women and gender-diverse people in the community. Guests can stay in second-stage housing for six to 18 months while they prepare for independent living.
"Not having a safe place to call home is precarious and frightening, particularly for women and gender-diverse people, and their children," said Kelli Paddon, Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity. "A safe, affordable place to live will make a world of difference for people rebuilding their lives when they can put down roots and a look forward to a more secure future."
The modular building will have studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments. Monthly rents will be determined closer to the building opening, but will be well below market rate.
"We field multiple calls per day from women of all ages, with and without children, who are seeking to leave an unsafe situation," said Heather Ney, executive director, CVTS. "This next phase of housing is part of our plan to accommodate the many individuals and families who have been supported at Darry's Place and allow them to stabilize, heal and plan for the future by providing the much-needed affordable rental housing that has been missing in our community. Secure housing of all kinds changes lives."
This building is the result of a partnership between the Province, through BC Housing, the City of Courtenay, CVTS and Pacific Swell Developments.
"Everyone deserves a good, safe place to call home," said Ronna-Rae Leonard, MLA for Courtenay-Comox. "We're proud to be working with our partners to create homes like these for women, gender-diverse people and other vulnerable people so that they can stabilize their lives and build a better future. Thank you to the Comox Valley Transition Society and the City of Courtenay for working with us to build a healthier community for everyone."
Construction is expected to be complete in summer 2024. Comox Valley-based Muchalat Group is constructing the modular building while Pacific Swell Developments Inc. is leading development work, providing local job opportunities for people in the community.
This project is part of a $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government. Since 2017, the Province has delivered approximately 77,000 homes that have been completed or are underway, including more than 800 homes in the Comox Valley Regional District.
Quotes:
Rick Browning, chair and co-founder, Pacific Swell Developments Inc. -
"We are thrilled to have played a role in bringing the vision of accessible, quality housing into reality for the community. Collaboration with BC Housing, the City of Courtenay and our seasoned trade and professional associates have been bedrock to our success in tackling the urgent challenge of constructing achievable housing."
Bob Wells, mayor, City of Courtenay -
"It's great to see construction starting on this much-needed housing. Future residents will benefit from having stability and financial security, which is especially helpful for those who have had to rebuild their lives after past trauma or abuse. We're really pleased to see this investment by the provincial government in housing for our community."
Quick Facts:
The Province, through BC Housing, is providing $16.2 million to the project.As is standard for projects that support women and children who have left violence, the address of this project has not been disclosed for safety reasons.
PacSwell Breaks Ground on 50-Unit Rental Building, Expanding Housing Options in Courtenay
April 27, 2023
April 27, 2023, Vancouver, BC. Pacific Swell Developments, Inc. ("PacSwell" or the "Company") is thrilled to announce the commencement of construction on a 50-unit market rental building in the vibrant city of Courtenay, BC.
Situated at 1600 Riverside Lane, Courtenay, PacSwell has officially kicked off the construction of a six-story building consisting of a ground parkade and five residential levels. This meticulously designed structure will offer a collection of studio and one-bedroom rental apartments, reflecting thoughtful planning and attention to detail. Each unit will feature its own washer/dryer and heating/air conditioning system, complemented by the distinctive interiors curated by Drifter the Brand. Additionally, the building will be equipped with EV charging facilities and a spacious roof deck that overlooks the river, serene fields, and majestic Mount Washington.
PacSwell takes pride in partnering with a carefully selected team of contractors, led by Island West Coast Developments, and distinguished consultants, led by Macdonald Hagarty Architects and including, but not limited to Herold Engineering, Lewkowich Engineering, Muir Engineering, Des Design Mechanical Engineers and Biophilia Design Collective.
As part of our ongoing efforts to support and uplift the communities it operates in, the Company has designated 5 studio units at the property as affordable housing units. These units will be offered at rates well below the market average, ensuring accessibility and affordability for individuals and families in need. The development showcases PacSwell's dedication to creating a diverse and inclusive community. This initiative aligns with PacSwell's overarching mission to enhance the lives of individuals and communities through principled property development and management.
Damien Duport, Vice President of Operations at Pacific Swell, expressed his excitement, stating, "The forthcoming 50-unit building will have a transformative impact on the corner of 17th and Cliffe in Courtenay. As an integral part of the community, we are delighted to provide additional rental housing options to the Comox Valley. Over the next 18 months, we eagerly anticipate collaborating with our esteemed group of trusted trades and consultants as the building comes to life. At PacSwell, we believe in making a positive impact on the communities we serve. By dedicating these studio units as affordable housing, we are proud to be taking an important step towards addressing the housing affordability challenge."
About Pacific Swell Developments, Inc
Pacific Swell is a private and principled property development and management company which aims to better the lives of the people and communities it operates in. It owns and operates residential, tourism and commercial properties around beautiful British Columbia, Canada. For more information, please visit www.pacswell.ca.
About Riverside Apartments
Riverside Apartments owns and operates the existing 42-unit market rental building at 1600 Riverside Lane and has recently commenced construction of an additional 50-units on a vacant portion of the property. For more information or to enquire about units for rent, please call us at (250) 871 – 1192 or visit www.theresidendceatriverside.com.
PacSwell Opens Darry’s Place: Supportive Second Stage Housing in Courtenay for Comox Valley Transition Society
April 13, 2023
April 13, 2023, Vancouver, BC. Pacific Swell Developments, Inc. ("PacSwell" or the "Company") is thrilled to announce the grand opening of Darry’s Place, a groundbreaking second-stage housing community for Comox Valley Transition Society (CVTS) in the vibrant city of Courtenay, BC.
Darry's Place is a remarkable 40-unit building that provides essential second-stage housing for women and their families who are bravely leaving situations of violence. The family-oriented development boasts a diverse range of living spaces, including studio, one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom homes. Notably, the project includes five wheelchair-accessible units, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Furthermore, the community features a secure outdoor children's play area, promoting a safe and nurturing environment.
Darry's Place is the first completed structure on the expansive Veterans Memorial Parkway site adjacent to the North Island Hospital Comox Valley. This significant milestone marks a major achievement in the Company's development and corporate activities, including land acquisition, financing, rezoning, securing necessary permits, construction management and eventual sale. Situated on approximately 5.7 acres of prime land, the site plans for this development include two multi-family buildings and 28 townhomes, designed to meet the growing demand for housing options in the Comox Valley. Darry's House, the inaugural structure on the site, has been sold to the Provincial Rental Housing Corporation and will be managed by the CVTS.
PacSwell extends its heartfelt appreciation to the exceptional local modular builder, Muchalat Construction and its trusted architects at Macdonald Hagarty Architects for their invaluable contributions to this project. The Company would also like to extend special accolades to Heather Ney, Executive Director of the Comox Valley Transition Society, whose dedication and unwavering commitment made this transformative endeavor possible.
Rick Browning, Chairman of Pacific Swell, expressed his excitement, stating, "It's a rare privilege to deliver a product that genuinely transforms the lives of individuals within the community. Our team is honored to have collaborated with CVTS, Muchalat, and Macdonald Hagarty on this much-needed building. We extend our warmest wishes to the future tenants of Darry's Place on their roads to recovery.
About Pacific Swell Developments, Inc
Pacific Swell is a private and principled property development and management company which aims to better the lives of the people and communities it operates in. It owns and operates residential, tourism and commercial properties around beautiful British Columbia, Canada. For more information, please visit www.pacswell.ca.
For more information on Darry’s Place and its significant impact, please refer to this article by Terry Farrell of the Comox Valley Record.
PacSwell Completes 105-Lot Subdivision in Kelowna's Orchard in the Mission
March 13, 2023
March 13, 2023, Vancouver, BC. Pacific Swell Developments, Inc (“PacSwell” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the successful completion of the final phase of its 105-lot single family subdivision in Kelowna, BC.
Formerly known as 984 Dehart Rd, Kelowna, PacSwell is delighted to have obtained subdivision approval and land title registration for the final phase of the Orchard in the Mission, marking a significant milestone in the project's development.
The subdivision was meticulously constructed in three phases, beginning in late 2018, with Wiltech Developments serving as the prime contractor, and New Town Architecture + Engineering and Primary Engineering and Construction as project engineers.
As part of the development, two lots were dedicated as parks for the City of Kelowna. Additionally, three new roads, Russo Street, Ladd Court, and Bull Crescent, were created to enhance accessibility. Furthermore, the project included the installation of a bus stop, a pedestrian crossing, a four-way traffic light, and two pedestrian paths, ensuring the convenience and safety of the community.
The quality and craftsmanship exhibited in the homes built during the initial phase of the development by our team of preferred builders has been recognized and celebrated with nominations and wins at the esteemed Okanagan Housing Awards of Excellence.
We are delighted to have attracted an esteemed group of preferred builders and appreciate the time and effort they have poured into the Orchard. They include Align West Homes, Carrington Homes, Gibson Custom Homes, Impact Builders, Kimberley Homes and Thomson Dwellings.
Ryan Cohen, CEO of Pacific Swell, expressed his excitement, stating, "We are elated to announce the completion of the final phase of our single-family subdivision in the Lower Mission area. Guiding this development from an overlooked and non-arable parcel of land into a thriving community has been incredibly fulfilling. Witnessing families, accompanied by their children and pets, strolling the sidewalks and enjoying their gardens brings us immense joy."
About Pacific Swell Developments, Inc
Pacific Swell is a private and principled property development and management company which aims to better the lives of the people and communities it operates in. It owns and operates residential, tourism and commercial properties around beautiful British Columbia, Canada. For more information, please visit www.pacswell.ca.
About The Orchard in the Mission
The Orchard in the Mission is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the Okanagan comprising 103 single family lots. We take pride in our 6 preferred builders; who have all been carefully selected and have great experience in constructing quality homes. Several lots are still available for sale, providing an opportunity to be a part of this exceptional community, For more information or to enquire about lots of homes for sale, please call us at (250) 492 – 1111 or visit www.theorchardkelowna.com.
PacSwell Unveils 10 New Luxurious Units at Mackenzie Beach Resort
August 4, 2022
August 4, 2022, Vancouver, BC - Pacific Swell Developments, Inc. ("PacSwell" or the "Company") is thrilled to announce the completion of ten stunning modular cabins at Tofino’s oldest Beachfront Resort: Mackenzie Beach Resort.
Situated at 1101 Pacific Rim Highway on MacKenzie Beach, PacSwell is proud to have successfully finished the construction of ten state-of-the-art modular one-bedroom cabins, now available for booking as "Suites." These units were expertly built by Aux Box, a leading modular construction company from Parksville, BC. PacSwell Concepts, our in-house construction group, oversaw the earthworks, utilities, civil work, interior furnishing, landscape design, and construction of the project.
Each meticulously crafted unit has been thoughtfully designed to offer unparalleled comfort, stargazing opportunities, privacy, and practicality. Guests can relish their stay with a private deck that includes a BBQ, dining area, propane fire pit, and a luxurious hot outdoor shower. For more information or to view pictures of the modern suites, please click on the link below:
Ross McKenzie, Head of Tourism at Pacific Swell and General Manager of Mackenzie Beach Resort, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We are thrilled to announce the completion of this extraordinary upgrade to the Resort. The Suites mark the first new accommodations added to the Resort in decades and have been crafted with immense care, capturing the essence of Tofino's unique charm. We eagerly anticipate the countless unforgettable memories that will be created here in the years to come."
About Pacific Swell Developments, Inc.
Pacific Swell is a privately owned and principled property development and management company dedicated to enhancing the lives of the people and communities it serves. The company is proud to host a diverse portfolio of residential, tourism, and commercial properties throughout the picturesque British Columbia, Canada. For more information, please visit www.pacswell.ca.
About MacKenzie Beach Resort, Ltd
MacKenzie Beach Resort stands as Tofino's oldest resort, nestled along the untamed wild west coast of Vancouver Island. The Resort comprises a stunning collection of oceanfront cabins, reinvigorated Airstreams, modern suites, and campsites. It takes pride in being home to Lil' Ronnies BBQ, Swell Tofino, General Store, Tuff City Saunas, and several other local businesses that add to the vibrant tapestry of the community. For more information, please visit www.mackenziebeach.com.
Nanaimo Industrial Park Design ‘Hit it Out the Park’ according to City Design Panel
December 8, 2021 - NANAIMO NEWS BULLETIN
December 8, 2021, Nanaimo, BC.
Multi-tenant industrial buildings planned in Nanaimo’s Wellington area. Design advisory panel looks at application for 4101 and 4125 Jingle Pot Rd. Two new industrial buildings are proposed at Jingle Pot and Boban roads in Nanaimo.
The City’s design advisory panel, at a meeting last month, looked over designs included with a development permit application for 4101 and 4125 Jingle Pot Rd., close to the Shaw building.
The plans are for two buildings, one with nine units and one with six, totalling 51,000 square feet. There is also a section of the property where a third building could be situated in a future phase of the project.
“The form of the development is that of an industrial park, with limited commercial storefronts along the main street…” noted BJK Architecture Inc. in correspondence to the city on behalf of applicant Pacswell Nanaimo Inc. “The building facades have protruding sections, overhangs, canopies and recesses. These create a pleasing building form, addressing human scale and avoiding tall, flat walls.”
The buildings would be circled by a two-way “ring road,” with all required parking and loading bays in the rear yard. No variances are being sought by the developer.
The design advisory panel recommended the application proceed without any suggestions for improvements.
“You never know what you’re going to get with industrial projects, but this one really hit it out of the park and I think it’s really well done,” said Tyler Brown, city council’s representative on the design advisory panel.
PacSwell Announces Acquisition & Plans for Nanaimo Light Industrial Park
September 29, 2021
September 29, 2021, Vancouver, BC. Pacific Swell Developments, Inc (“PacSwell” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the acquisition of 4.4 acres of light industrial land centrally located in the Mostar-Boban industrial area of Northern Nanaimo.
Located at the corner of Boban Dr and Jingle Pot Rd, the properties at 4101 and 4125 Jingle Pot are strategically positioned within close proximity to Highway 19 (500m) and Island Highway North (<1km). PacSwell plans to develop a series of light industrial buildings, spanning approximately 90,000 square feet, for strata sale and/or lease. The Company has already submitted a development permit application with the City of Nanaimo and anticipates commencing construction in late 2023.
The units within the development will offer a range of sizes, from 2,500 to 37,000 square feet, providing versatile options for tenants. These units will incorporate a mix of warehouse and mezzanine flex space. Demonstrating PacSwell's commitment to innovation, the development will include amenities such as EV charging stations, secure bike storage and a private outdoor park and seating area.
Ryan Cohen, Co-Founder and CEO of Pacific Swell, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We are thrilled to have acquired this centrally located property and are eager to contribute to the ongoing growth of Nanaimo. Our aim is to set a new standard for light industrial space in Nanaimo, ensuring that it meets the evolving needs of businesses. Through this development, we are proud to further establish Nanaimo as the central service hub of the Island."
PacSwell remains dedicated to responsible development practices, emphasizing sustainable and community-oriented approaches in all its projects.
About Pacific Swell Developments, Inc
Pacific Swell is a privately owned and principled property development and management company dedicated to enhancing the lives of the people and communities it serves. The company is proud to host a diverse portfolio of residential, tourism, and commercial properties throughout the picturesque British Columbia, Canada. For more information, please visit www.pacswell.ca.
Those wishing to find our more or enquire on availability of industrial lease and/or sales units in Nanaimo, please contact us via email at: info@pacswell.ca
Local developer makes major donation to Habitat for Humanity Comox Valley ReStore.
May 4, 2021 - COMOX VALLEY RECORD
Kitchen remodellers have been finding great deals at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore, thanks to a local developer.
Pacific Swell Developments, which has multi-unit residential developments in both Courtenay and Comox, donated $89,500 worth of kitchen appliances, counters, faucets and cabinets to Habitat VIN in the hopes of aiding Habitat’s mission to support and provide affordable housing options for local families.
“We are delighted to have had the opportunity to give back to this vibrant community in a meaningful way,” said Rick Browning, co-founder and non-executive chairman of Pacific Swell. “Habitat is the quintessential champion in fostering caring and supportive communities across North America and we very much look forward to future opportunities to do more.”
The products donated by Pacific Swell are being sold to the public through Habitat VIN’s social enterprise, the Comox Valley ReStore, at 1755 13 St. in Courtenay. Habitat for Humanity ReStores are home and building supply stores that accept and resell quality new and used building materials donated by both businesses and individuals. Funds generated are used to fund local Habitat for Humanity home building projects.
We are grateful to have received a donation of this magnitude during such a trying time,” said Kayla Tinga, manager of the Comox Valley ReStore. “This donation, along with the continued support of the Comox Valley community, allows us to continue to plan our upcoming build and further our commitment to Habitat’s mission of building safe, affordable homes.”
The donated items aren’t staying on the shelves long.
“Unfortunately, all the units we received so far have sold,” Tinga. “We will be receiving more units and will probably find out this week when they will arrive.”
The Comox Valley ReStore is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is also an online shopping option at habitatrestorevin.com