BC Housing Purchases Mission Tower to Revive 92-Unit Affordable Housing Project
Mission’s tallest building has officially changed hands, clearing the way for 92 units of affordable housing that were previously stalled. BC Housing purchased the 11-storey building at 33230 2nd Avenue in March 2025 for $33,750,000, according to BC Assessment. Renovations are already underway, with completion targeted for early 2026.
BC Housing says the upgrades will improve accessibility, safety, and comfort for future tenants, while preparing the building for long-term non-profit operation.
Partnership With More Than A Roof Housing Society
The project is being developed in partnership with More Than A Roof Housing Society (MTAR), which will operate the building and co-own a portion of the residential units. In a letter dated Oct. 15, Mission Mayor Paul Horn urged BC Housing to prioritize finalizing operating agreements so MTAR can begin occupancy as soon as renovations are complete.
Horn emphasized the urgency of opening the building, referencing rising local housing needs as well as potential commercial community uses for the ground-floor spaces, such as a community kitchen, non-profit offices, and gathering spaces. He warned that delays risk losing those opportunities.
Renovations Underway After Structural and Safety Concerns
BC Housing vice-president of development and asset strategies, Michael Pistrin, responded on Nov. 3, outlining that major interior upgrades were necessary to make units fully safe and accessible. The first phase of renovations was completed in summer 2025, and the second phase—expected to wrap up in early 2026—includes a new cooling system, improved accessible bathrooms, enhanced laundry areas, and rooftop safety railings.
A Project Once Rejected, Now Moving Forward
The building was originally planned by Apex Western Homes, with the goal of transferring 92 affordable housing units to a non-profit operator. But in 2024, BC Housing declined the funding application under the Community Housing Fund. Despite the strong proposal, it did not score high enough in the competitive ranking system at the time.
Then-Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon said the project would continue without government funding due to the volume of competing proposals during tough economic conditions. Discussions continued through 2024 as BC Housing, MTAR, the developer, and the City of Mission searched for alternative pathways forward.
The 2025 purchase by BC Housing marks a turning point—finally guaranteeing a future for the long-awaited affordable housing units.
What Comes Next for Mission
With renovations underway and partnerships in place, Mission is now closer to delivering 92 desperately needed homes. City staff are prepared to process building permits immediately, with Mayor Horn reiterating that the community cannot afford further delays.
Once completed in early 2026, the restored building will provide new affordable housing, community space opportunities, and a major step toward meeting Mission’s growing housing demands.
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