From the Desk of Hazzem Koudsi, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Prince Edward-Hastings.
If you have recently driven by the former police station at 93 Dundas Street East in Belleville, you will see the building is finally down! The final sounds of demolition at the corner of South George and Dundas marks more than the removal of an aging structure. It signals the beginning of a new chapter for our community. As excavators and crews carefully and sustainably dismantled what once stood as a service building, their efforts laid the groundwork for a new condominium development designed to deliver affordable* homeownership opportunities for local families.
Demolition is often seen as an ending, but in this case is a purposeful transition. The existing building had reached the end of its useful life and could not be converted into any semblance of what would serve as safe and decent housing. The removal of the building was carried out by Environmentall with a focus on safety, environmental responsibility, and respect for the surrounding area, especially the existing Children’s Safety Village.
The cleared site will become home to a thoughtfully designed condominium that addresses one of the communities’ more pressing need: attainable housing. Rising costs have made homeownership opportunities increasingly out of reach for many working families. This development aims to bridge the gap by using innovative techniques, offering quality, energy-efficient homes at price points that reflect local incomes, helping families put down roots rather than being forced to move away.
The impact of this project goes well beyond bricks and mortar. Stable, affordable homeownership is one of the strongest foundations for child well-being. A safe and secure home provides children with the consistency they need to succeed in school, build friendships, and develop a sense of belonging. It reduces the stress associated with housing insecurity and allows parents to focus their time and resources on their children’s growth and opportunities.
As demolition gives way to construction, the site will transform from a symbol of the past into a catalyst for long-term community benefit. The condominium project represents an investment in people, most importantly children, by creating a place where families can thrive for generations to come. What begins with demolition ultimately leads to hope, stability and a stronger, more inclusive community.
*The definition of affordable being 30% of gross income towards the mortgage they will pay to eventually own their home.