Opening 40 new homes in Prince Rupert

New below-market rentals open for workers through BC Builds

Summary

  • Forty new rental homes delivered through BC Builds are now open at 511 W. 9th Ave.
  • Homes were delivered faster using modular construction methods and exceeded affordability targets
  • The development supports local employers in key sectors such as health care, education, port operations and logistics

PRINCE RUPERT - Workers, families and seniors in Prince Rupert now have access to 40 new rental homes with the opening of Estrella, an apartment building in the community delivered through BC Builds.

Construction began in fall 2024, only weeks after approval, aligning with BC Builds’ commitment to move projects from concept to construction within 12 to 18 months, rather than the typical three to five years. Exceeding program requirements, 30% of homes will be rented at 20% below market rates, making more homes accessible for middle-income earners.

“These new homes will make a real difference for people in Prince Rupert,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “By working with partners, we’re creating more housing options for people who keep this community running, whether in health care, port operations or small businesses. Everyone deserves a stable home that allows them to put down roots and thrive in the place they call home.”

The project at 511 W. 9th Ave. was delivered in partnership with the Province, through BC Builds at BC Housing, the federal government, through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, the city of Prince Rupert and Aurora Housing Society. The project supports local employers by helping attract and retain workers in key sectors such as health care, education, port operations and logistics.

“Our government is committed to working with communities and all levels of government to provide the support they need to increase housing supply,” said Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada. “The innovative building methods used for this project demonstrate how we are addressing housing challenges more quickly to ensure every Canadian has a place to call home.”

Faster delivery through innovation, BC Builds

Estrella was built using modular construction by NorthStar Pacific Development Corporation. The modules were designed and constructed off site, then transported to Prince Rupert for installation. The modular elements were craned into place on site in less than a week, demonstrating how modern methods of construction can accelerate housing delivery. This approach reduced construction waste, minimized on-site disruption and helped address the local shortage of skilled trades in the community. It also shortened the on‑site construction schedule, ensuring homes were available to people sooner.

“This project delivers what people need most: safe, stable homes grounded in the needs of the community,” said Laanas – Tamara Davidson, MLA for North Coast-Haida Gwaii. “Estrella shows what is possible when innovation and collaboration come together to deliver homes faster for the people who make our communities strong.”

This project is part of a $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government. Since 2017, the Province has more than 95,000 homes delivered or underway, including nearly 550 homes in the North Coast Regional District.

Quotes:

Herb Pond, mayor of Prince Rupert –

“Housing, and especially affordable housing, is a critical need in our community to support the people who live here and attract new residents. The city was happy for the opportunity to support a project like Estrella that is delivering new units in record time.”

Glen Pollock, director, Aurora Housing Society –

“For many people working in Prince Rupert, finding stable rental housing has been a real challenge. Estrella helps close that gap by providing safe, functional and modern homes that support individuals and families who are essential to the community by creating housing people can rely on.”

Jeff Brown, executive vice-president, NorthStar Pacific Development –

“Estrella shows what is possible when innovation is applied to real housing needs and the realities of smaller remote communities. By using modular construction, we were able to deliver new rental homes faster and more efficiently while maintaining the standards expected for long-term rental housing. This model is especially well-suited to communities like Prince Rupert, where timely delivery and workforce housing are critical.”

Quick Facts:

  • The Province, through BC Builds at BC Housing, provided more than $4 million in grant funding.
  • The federal government provided nearly $11 million through the apartment construction loan program under the Canada-BC Builds agreement.
  • The City of Prince Rupert is leasing the land to the Aurora Housing Society for a nominal fee.
  • More than 5,200 homes across B.C. have been delivered or are underway through BC Builds, with more projects to be announced in the months ahead.

Learn More:

Contacts
Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs
Media Relations
236 478-0251
BC Housing
Media Relations
[email protected]