The next phase of work is now underway on the site of the new 50-unit social housing multi-plex in downtown Yellowknife. Site mobilization started on March 3rd, with on-the-ground construction activities scheduled to begin later this month. Yellowknife residents can expect intermittent street closures while material is being delivered. The project remains on track for completion in Spring 2027.

Over the winter, significant progress was made to prepare for a safe, efficient, and well-coordinated construction phase. Structural components for the building were manufactured at the Kalesnikoff Mass Timber facility in Castlegar, British Columbia, using durable, sustainable wood and precise building methods that help reduce waste.  These prefabricated components are expected to arrive in Yellowknife later this month. During the delivery and installation of these materials, temporary street closures will be required adjacent to the construction site, located on 50th St, between 50th Ave and 51st Ave to safely accommodate oversized loads and lifting activities.

At the same time, the pre-production of the building’s outer walls is underway at the Flynn Speedwall factory. PCL has begun preparing the site for the steel and mass timber installation. Because these major pieces have been built off-site ahead of time, on-site assembly will occur rapidly, with improved quality control and fewer weather-related delays.

This project reflects Housing NWT’s ongoing efforts to increasing access to safe, modern, and energy-efficient housing across the territory. The building's design includes sustainable features such as prefabricated mass timber and panelized wall systems and biomass heating to improve energy-efficiency and reduce long-term operating costs. By combining innovative construction methods and durable, sustainable materials, we continue to support our long-term goal of delivering homes that are designed to address the unique challenges of northern climates.

This project represents a major step forward in expanding housing options in Yellowknife and demonstrates Housing NWT’s commitment to delivering modern, sustainable, energy-efficient, and affordable housing solutions that meet the needs of northern communities. It also supports the GNWT’s mandate commitment to increase the suitability, accessibility, and affordability of housing across the territory.

Quote

“I am delighted to see the progress with the 50-Unit Multi-Plex project in Yellowknife. This represents more than just a building, it represents a long-term investment in Yellowknife and the people who call it home, and demonstrates our commitment to providing more homes for Northerners. This will have a noticeable impact in a central location of the city, and work has thoughtfully included safety and community-oriented features. By using sustainable and energy-efficient construction methods and intentional design, we are able to deliver quality housing for residents in a more efficient, meaningful and resilient way. I look forward to watching it take shape in the months ahead.”

- The Honourable Lucy Kuptana, Minister Responsible for Housing Northwest Territories  

Quick facts

• Mobilization on the site of the 50-Unit Multi-Plex project began on March 3rd, and construction is set to begin later this month.
• Structural components were manufactured off-site and are expected to arrive in late March.
• Expected construction completion date: Spring 2027
• Sustainable design features include mass timber construction and biomass heating.
• The 50-unit complex will consist of 25 barrier-free bachelor suites for seniors and singles and 25 two-bedroom units for small families.
• This project reflects Housing NWT’s commitment to increasing access to safe, sustainable, and energy-efficient housing across the territory. 

Related links

• Lucy Kuptana: Capital Delivery Status Update
• Next Phase of Yellowknife's 50-Unit Housing Project Set for Spring 2026

For media requests, please contact:
Laura Busch, Manager, Communications
Housing NWT
Government of the Northwest Territories
NWTHC_Comms@gov.nt.ca