Project Details
Type: Affordable Housing Complex
Client: BC Housing
Date of Completion: January 2021
Location: Surrey, B.C.
Size: 21,500 sq.ft.
Levels: 3 (+ basement)
Modules: 57
Suites: 38
Scope and Challenges:
Peterson Place, built in support of BC Housing’s Rapid Response to Homelessness initiative, was required quickly on an existing site with numerous space challenges. The new building needed to be craned only 15 feet away from an existing 57-suite affordable housing complex, squeezing into a long, narrow space surrounded by site obstacles including powerlines. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic added an extra layer of complication, with additional safety precautions and procedures needing to be implemented throughout.
It was a challenge perfectly suited to Nomodic’s model, and to modular construction. Utilizing a trusted fabrication partner in Manitoba for manufacturing, Nomodic provided full project services and continuity throughout: from design, to quality control, to site works, delivery, and installation.
Solution:
The site was too narrow to lift modules near the building’s foundation, so our team improvised with an innovative solution: parking further away and craning the units high above the existing homes. A special truck with independent wheel suspension was needed in order to navigate the tight angles of the space and bring the modules close enough to be craned into place. The crane needed to be repositioned several times throughout, and attention to detail and safety were paramount to making it work.
In the end, our site crew and partners overcame the challenges of the site, and the craning process was completed in only nine days. The project was fully completed in January 2021.
“Nomodic has exceeded all our expectations and Fraserside is extremely happy with the result. These new homes have made a significant difference in the lives of people facing homelessness.” – Lynda Edmonds, CEO of Fraserside Community Services Society
To address the COVID-19 pandemic, our team implemented a number of strict safety protocols to ensure our employees, the community, and all stakeholders were kept safe. Captured in Nomodic’s COVID-specific Site Safety Manual, these included daily health assessments and advisory updates, limits on people working within certain spaces, staggered shifts to reduce potential contact points, increased Personal Protective Equipment including masks, and thorough cleaning of work areas and equipment after every shift.
The result was a one-of-a-kind solution to Surrey’s affordable housing needs, delivered safely and efficiently, that is set to leave things better for residents in need for years to come. The finished complex is operated by Fraserside Community Services Society, who provides a number of support services for residents including life skills and job training, health services, meals, and opportunities for volunteer work.
“It was wonderful to work with a team that believed in creating a good, sustainable housing model. While working on site during the pandemic, the team adhered to strict safety protocols to ensure that residents, employees, and other stakeholders were not exposed to any risk so that services continued to function in a healthy environment.” – Lynda Edmonds, CEO of Fraserside Community Services Society