Affordable senior housing project in French River nears completion, applications now open

Applications are being accepted for a newly built seniors’ housing development in French River.

The Municipality of French River is moving forward with its Affordable Senior Housing Project, a 30-unit independent living facility designed to address the growing need for accessible units for residents aged 55 and older.

With construction progressing steadily, the project is now accepting tenant applications, marking a significant milestone for the community.

affordable senior housing project - layout The planned layout of a new affordable senior housing project set to open in the fall of 2025 in the Municipality of French River. (Municipality of French River)

Project Overview

Announced in February 2024 and breaking ground last summer, the French River Senior Housing Project will offer a mix of one- and two-bedroom suites, featuring barrier-free units, indoor and outdoor common spaces and proximity to municipal amenities.

Located at 44 St. Christopher Street in Noëlville, developers said the complex aims to foster community engagement while providing seniors with affordable, independent living options.

affordable senior housing project - construction An aerial view of the construction of a new affordable senior housing project at 44 St. Christopher Street in Noëlville, Ont., on August 20, 2024. (Municipality of French River)

The facility is not a long-term care home nor geared-to-income housing but is tailored to seniors seeking autonomy within a supportive environment.

Application Process Now Open

“We’re officially accepting applications, and we’d love to get the word out,” said the Municipality of French River’s executive coordinator Carlie Bigras in an email to CTV News.

Prospective tenants can now apply for units, with Descon Construction Limited. Applications are available on the Municipality of French River’s website, with physical copies at the municipal office.

Rental rates and financing

While final mortgage rates are still being negotiated by the project’s not-for-profit board, estimated monthly rents are:

• One-Bedroom Units: $ 1,455 - $ 1,550
• Two-Bedroom Units: $ 1,655 - $ 1,750

Affordable Senior Housing Project A graphic representation of the exterior of one of the buildings at a new affordable senior housing complex under construction in Noëlville, Ont. (Municipality of French River)

Tenants will cover utilities, parking fees and appliances.

Descon said more detailed information will be released closer to the facility’s completion, expected in fall 2025.

Community impact and leadership

The project responds to demographic shifts in French River, where the median age is now 58 years.

Mayor Gisèle Pageau emphasized the complex’s dual benefits in an update on the project in February.

French River Municipality of French River Mayor Gisèle Pageau announced plans for new seniors’ housing development to a packed room full of local residents in February 2024. (File Photo/Angela Gemmill/CTV News Northern Ontario)

“This isn’t just about building a facility; it’s about investing in our community,” she said.

“We’re supporting seniors while boosting the local economy through jobs and partnerships.”

A volunteer board of residents and council members will oversee the complex’s operations to ensure alignment with community needs.

The municipality is planning an open house for the new complex on April 23 from 1 to 3 p.m. to allow people to walk through the facilities.