8 Roxanne Dr: A Sustainable Step Forward for CityHousing Hamilton

8 Roxanne Drive

October 13, 2023
By Peter Vander Klippe, Senior Project Manager 

In 2023, CityHousing Hamilton launched its new affordable housing project at 8 Roxanne Dr, which not only introduced innovative design but also rebuilt the units that previously stood on the site. 

Innovative Construction 

Central to the building's architecture is its panelized modular system. Precast panels with integrated insulation contribute to the structure's energy conservation. The incorporation of factory-installed passive house windows boosts the building's energy-saving features. 

Adhering to passive house principles, the building manages to achieve 40% less energy usage compared to the criteria outlined by the 2015 National Energy Code for Building (NECB). 

Image credit: Legacy

Diverse Housing Options 

8 Roxanne Dr showcases 103 units that provide a range of living spaces from one to four-bedroom apartments. Notably, the building has a mix of deep and moderate affordable units, ensuring a broader reach for those seeking housing. CityHousing Hamilton’s dedication to inclusivity is evident with 20% of these units being fully accessible. Moreover, residents benefit from amenities like an energy recovery ventilator (ERV) and in-unit bike storage. 

Collaborative Effort 

The realization of this project stemmed from a collaborative venture with a private sector developer. CityHousing Hamilton contributed the land, while the developer furnished the essential funding, breathing life into 8 Roxanne Dr. This synergistic effort culminates in 103 contemporary apartments under CityHousing Hamilton’s portfolio, and sets the stage for an additional 1,200 developer-owned units on this site in the near future. 

This alliance proves advantageous for both CityHousing Hamilton and the City of Hamilton. The new housing spectrum enhances affordability and augments the property tax revenue for the city. 

Overcoming Challenges 

Despite the overarching challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the project faced minimal delays, maintaining its budgetary constraints. 

In essence, 8 Roxanne Dr serves as a testament to CityHousing Hamilton's dedication to fostering a future that is both economically and environmentally sustainable. 

More information can be found on the 8 Roxanne Drive project page.