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City of Richmond proposes rental housing development for Aberdeen neighbourhood

Published 11:30 PDT, Tue August 12, 2025
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The City of Richmond is proposing the development of over 200 rental homes on city-owned land in the Aberdeen neighbourhood for Richmond residents.
The project, referred to as the Aberdeen Rental Residences, currently contemplates two six-storey buildings that would accommodate up to 220 rental homes on city-owned land from 3660 to 3740 Sexsmith Road.
Contrary to statements made publicly by some, the Aberdeen Rental Residences will not be supportive housing development. A proposed supportive housing project on adjacent land was cancelled by council in February and will not be revisited.
The people who will live in the Aberdeen Rental Residences will not require the services offered in a supportive housing building. Drug treatment and the need for on-site medical supports or interventions are not required. A history of addiction, mental health or other issues is also not a prerequisite for anyone living in the units.
The project, should it proceed, would be purpose-built to serve working households and those on fixed incomes, including families, seniors and persons with disabilities who are often underserved in Richmond’s housing market. Eligible residents must be on BC Housing’s registry, have ties to Richmond and will be selected based on their need and availability. This is different to supportive housing where residents must undergo a health assessment and referral.
Two-thirds of the proposed Aberdeen Rental Residences will be two and three-bedroom family units, with the remainder a mix of studio and one-bedroom apartments. They will look and operate like any other rental apartment building in the neighbourhood. The development may also offer opportunities for non-residential uses such as retail stores, office spaces, childcare, and restaurants to further enhance the local community.
Nearby residents and businesses recently received a letter informing them of the proposed development, and inviting them to a Let’s Talk Richmond site for more information. A series of Open Houses are also being held for area residents in the coming weeks.
The proposal, if it proceeds, would undergo a mandatory rezoning and development application process, with further opportunities for community comments and feedback. The project is still subject to receiving funding through BC Housing’s Community Housing Fund, and the city recently issued a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEOI) for possible not-for-profit organizations interested in managing the project should it be required.