The Government of Yukon is investing $5 million in the Winter Crossing housing project in Whistle Bend to help meet the growing demand for affordable housing options in Whitehorse.
This 105-unit project will be the single largest affordable housing development in the Yukon’s history. The investment helps ensure Yukon Housing Corporation meets its goal of partnering to build 250 new affordable homes by 2028 and will create significant opportunities for local labour and fabrication during the project.
Winter Crossing will be owned and operated by Da Daghay Development Corporation, which also manages the neighbouring River Bend housing complex, providing homes to Yukoners, including Yukon Housing Corporation Rent-Geared-to-Income clients. The Yukon Housing Corporation intends to lease 75 of the units for a 20-year term.
The investment supports an Indigenous housing provider that is committed to operating safe, energy-efficient affordable housing to support the wellbeing of Yukoners and supports the shared mandates of the Yukon Housing Corporation, the Department of Energy, Mines and Resources and the Department of Community Services to increase housing stock across the territory, develop new land parcels and lots, and enable innovative approaches to address the acute need for increased housing option in the territories.
This partnership demonstrates the Government of Yukon's commitment to investing in stable, affordable, quality housing that creates opportunity and builds community.
Our government continues to make historic investments in affordable housing. This expanded partnership with Da Daghay Development Corporation will create more than 100 new affordable homes while continuing the important work of investing in economic reconciliation with Yukon First Nations. Together, we are working to ensure that all Yukoners have access to safe, affordable housing options and a place to call home.
Premier and Minister responsible for Yukon Housing Corporation Ranj Pillai
Da Daghay Development Corporation (DDDC) is excited to continue to walk alongside the Government of Yukon by increasing access to affordable housing units in Whitehorse. By providing funding to Da Daghay Development Corporation, the government is demonstrating their confidence in our housing program, and they are honouring economic reconciliation by allowing DDDC to take the reins in carving out this exciting housing plan. We are so excited to welcome more Yukoners home, starting in 2025.
Chief Executive Officer Da Daghay Development Corporation Ben Asquith
Da Daghay Development Corporation is the economic arm of the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council, which owns and operates the 70-unit River Bend complex where Yukon Housing Corporation is leasing 50 units for its Rent-Geared-to-Income clients.
The first phase of construction for Winter Crossing is scheduled to begin later this spring with completion in fall 2026.
Yukon Housing Corporation’s new five-year strategic plan Creating Home includes commitments to support 800 additional households by 2028 including 250 new affordable homes delivered through partnerships.
Yukon Housing Corporation’s community housing approach delivers housing that contributes to healthy homes and communities in support of Yukoners’ wellbeing and life opportunities.
As of January 4, 2024, the waitlist for Rent-Geared-to-Income units in Whitehorse was 252.
Demand for Rent-Geared-to-Income housing tracks closely with the Yukon's growing population. Projections suggest an increase of about 50 clients each year until at least 2028.
Jordan Owens
Cabinet Communications
867-335-9058
Jordan.Owens@yukon.ca
Laura Gohl
Communications, Yukon Housing Corporation
867-667-8818
laura.gohl@yukon.ca