NationTalk: The Government of Yukon is committed to improving access to housing across the territory and is pleased to announce the new 10-plex in Old Crow, built in collaboration with the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation, is ready to welcome its new occupants.

These 10 new homes will help to empower the community to respond to housing needs. This closely aligns with Yukon Housing Corporation’s strategic aim of strengthening community wellbeing and building a sustainable future.

The corporation worked in partnership with the community of Old Crow to determine the best use of the units and ensure the new 10-plex meets the community’s priorities.

The building has four one-bedroom and six two-bedroom units. Three units are allocated to Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation staff and Citizens. The remaining seven units are allocated to Government of Yukon staff who deliver essential services and supports in the community. This includes six to the Department of Health and Social Services and one to the Department of Highways and Public Works.

The new 10-plex is part of a bigger development plan for Old Crow that includes a health and wellness centre which is scheduled to open later this year. These two construction projects are the result of several years of planning and development in collaboration with the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation.

The $53.5 million design-build contract for both the 10-plex and health and wellness centre was awarded by the Department of Highways and Public Works to Ketza TSL Construction in March 2021. Construction activity resulted in an estimated $12.5 million in economic benefits to the community from employment, training and business opportunities and the construction of a winter road in 2022 and 2023 to move construction materials into the community.

The new 10-plex will address the shortage of available staff housing and will help retain staff in Old Crow, while the adjacent health and wellness centre will replace the existing health centre – built in the 1970s – while strengthening community wellbeing through the provision of a variety of health and social services.

This project showcases the benefits of many people, across many organizations working collaboratively towards our shared goal. It’s wonderful to see many years of work coming to fruition, and now many community members can call this new building home. Our government, alongside the Vuntut Gwichin First Nation, is making good on our commitment to building strong communities and a sustainable future for Yukoners.

Premier and Minister responsible for Yukon Housing Corporation Ranj Pillai

The completion of this new 10-plex marks a significant step toward improved infrastructure for the community of Old Crow. Not only will it address evolving housing needs, but it will also support community wellbeing. This project stands as a testament to the partnership between the Government of Yukon, Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation and Ketza TSL Construction Ltd. I am very proud to see it now occupied by its new tenants.

Minister of Highways and Public Works Nils Clarke

It’s been a privilege for Ketza TSL Construction Ltd to work with and learn from the Old Crow community for the past two years. We are proud to partner with the Government of Yukon and work with the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation to deliver transformational projects like the 10-plex housing unit.

Eric Brohman President Ketza TSL Construction Ltd

Quick facts

• A 2018 review of all Yukon health centres identified the Old Crow Health Centre as the top priority for replacement. The previous health centre was built in the early 1970s.
• A combined procurement was used to simplify construction resource demands and decrease the project cost.
• In spring 2021, a 60-year land lease was signed with the Vuntut Gwitchin Government, allowing the Government of Yukon to use Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation land for the 10-plex and Health and Wellness Centre projects.
• The 10-plex is adjacent to a health and wellness centre scheduled to open later this year.

Media contact

Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
laura.seeley@yukon.ca

Laura Gohl
Communications, Yukon Housing Corporation
867-667-8818
Laura.Gohl @yukon.ca