Excitement is building in Georgetown as Habitat is progressing through the planning stages of our Exchange Hotel project. We are so happy to share that as we continue our work on this property, we will be bringing affordable housing to the area.
Like many other communities in the GTA, Georgetown has a need for affordable housing. As the supply of land in the GTA becomes more limited, housing prices in the area will rise and housing that is less expensive, such as townhouses and apartments, will be in greater demand, according to the 2009 Residential Intensification Market Demand Study by the Town of Halton Hills.
To meet this growing demand, Habitat is building five units of affordable housing on the surrounding property of the Exchange Hotel through four townhomes and one family in the hotel. The project has three phases: preparing the hotel and ensuring it is structurally sound, which has been carried out; relocating the hotel and restoring any necessary elements, which is in progress and, last but not least, beginning the construction process so that we can build additional townhomes on the property.
What are our next steps?
We have submitted an application for a minor variance, which will allow us to build a foundation for the new hotel location. The minor variance is a process is for intrusion of municipal residential setback requirements. We’re also working toward a demolition permit for the below grade structure, as the hotel is currently sitting on a deteriorating foundation.
In addition, we’re working alongside Metrolinx and VIA Rail to reroute a hydro line and telephone line which do not have easements (permission) for our site. In the meantime, we’ll be relocating the structure to a temporary location. We aim to move it before the winter months. We are already on track as we have secured a house mover to aid us in this process within the next few months.
Throughout these processes, we will maintain the integrity of the iconic Exchange Hotel. We know that the hotel is important to its community, and we want to honour this while working towards our commitment to provide safe, decent and affordable housing to the community.
How can I get involved?
Due to the costs involved in the relocation, restoration and redevelopment of this property, we are looking to our local community to get involved to help local families have a safe place to call home. You can donate online through Habitat’s website. We’re proud to guarantee that 100 per cent of monetary donations go into our home building projects, ensuring that your donation will make a real difference in the lives of local families.
Where can I learn more?
Habitat Halton-Mississauga-Dufferin’s build website has updates on the Exchange Hotel project, as well as photos of the site. Follow this link to learn more!
Updated: July 2, 2021