STATUS
Complete
LOCATION
Fernie
REGION
Interior
CLIENT
Fernie Chamber of Commerce
COMPLETION DATE
September 2025
PROJECT WEBSITE
Fernie Workforce Rental Housing Business Plan
Beginning in 2024, MDS worked with the Fernie Chamber of Commerce to explore options for affordable rental housing for people working in the tourism, hospitality and service sector. The city’s most recent housing needs report, completed in 2020, found that market rents are not affordable for many renters, especially lower income earners. The challenges of finding affordable rental housing are further compounded during seasonal holidays, when the population temporarily spikes by up to 30%. In a city experiencing continued population growth, the availability and affordability of affordable housing poses risks to the security of residents and the area’s economic growth.
To respond to these issues, our team worked with the chamber to create the Workforce Rental Housing Business Plan, an investment-ready business plan to construct and operate affordable rental housing. MDS drafted feasibility studies and financial modelling to determine sustainable affordable rental housing options, followed by key recommendations for location, housing typology, funding and partnership structures. The project ended with an engaging presentation provided to local business owners and city leaders responsible for actioning the plan’s recommendations.
MDS SERVICES PROVIDED
- Feasibility analysis and studies
- Housing strategies and action plans
- Engagement and facilitation
