So far west - it's east

A story in yesterday’s National Post online featured the renovation of a 110 year old building to include “micro-lofts” in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. The 270 square foot “apartments” rent for $675 and up.

This probably isn’t a solution to the homelessness crisis plaguing Vancouver. It’s more of an attempt to introduce mixed income housing to a long-term poverty stricken, crime ridden neighbourhood. The lofts would appeal to students, or younger people just joining the workforce. There's no tub in the lofts, just a one-piece shower/toilet/sink. 

It’s a new way (to some) to work through the affordable housing file. I think I like it.  I wonder if this would fly in Saint John?

Family Literacy Day - January 27

Family Literacy Day occurs each January 27.  The Saint John Free Public Library, West Branch is holding a "Singing for Literacy" event, 7:00  p.m. - 8:00  p.m.  with participants singing books.

Check out this worthy cause.

Relocation for the Colour Centre

The Colour Centre on Fairville Blvd., (or as it's sometimes called - Raynes Blvd.) in any case -  has moved to a new location in the Fairville Blvd. Plaza.   With the redevelopment of Simms Corner due to continue this summer, the move might be a wise business decision.

CUPE headquarters

So the CUPE headquarters on Simms Corner is complete. The former office, the brick building next door to the new office, was demolished yesterday.

Workers did a nice job on the new office, but appearances being what they are, the building looks like it should be on a lake, or in a subdivision outside the city core. I am just not feeling the “Main Street” vibe. Kind of a shame, as it would have been a great opportunity to retain some of the former Lancaster / Fairville flavour with a building echoing the past; think of the work Moosehead did on their offices. Fits nicely with the area.

More Businesses Coming to West Side

A post today in CHSJ's news blog reiterates what I have been hearing for months:  a pizza restaurant will be opening on the west side.   I have been hearing that it (named Papa John's, according to West Side Business Association president Blaine Harris)  is opening in the Sobey's Plaza.  Also in the post, confirmation that Canadian Tire will begin expansion in the spring.    

Apparently Harris' group is in negotiation with Empire Theatres; west siders have longed for the return of a movie theater to the area.   Although I would like to see a theater here,  I am not sure the area could sustain a theatre.  The economic climate for the industry is a tough one.