Seabird Island
The first provincial housing fund in Canada to include on-reserve housing to help develop affordable rental homes.
Seabird Island - 34-Unit Community
Overview
Cohesive Mechanical is proud to partner with the Seabird Island Band on a landmark housing project that will provide 34 new affordable homes on reserve. Financed through Canada’s first provincial housing fund to include on‑reserve housing, the development comprises two buildings: a three‑story structure with 16 apartments and six townhomes, and a second building featuring 12 accessible homes for Elders and people with disabilities. The site sits at the intersection of Pipeho:m Road and Steqoye Road in Agassiz, within walking distance of health, education and cultural services. The Province is investing $20.6 million in the project, with construction slated from early 2024 to completion in 2026.
Key Challenges
Historic funding model – As the first provincial on‑reserve housing fund, the project must navigate novel agreements between BC Housing and the Band.
Mixed unit types – Designing mechanical systems for a mix of apartments, townhomes and accessible suites requires flexible layouts and careful load calculations.
Community integration – Homes must be durable, energy‑efficient and sensitive to cultural values while located close to existing band offices and services.
Construction phasing – Work must proceed on a remote reserve site with minimal disruption and within a two‑year timeline.
Solution
Cohesive Mechanical will deliver a comprehensive mechanical package that includes:
Variable‑capacity heat pumps and hydronic systems providing efficient heating and cooling across apartments, townhomes and Elders’ units.
Centralized domestic hot‑water plant with insulated distribution and recirculation to deliver reliable hot water while minimizing waste.
Balanced ventilation and energy‑recovery systems ensuring healthy indoor air quality and low operating costs.
Accessible controls and mechanical cores designed for ease of use by Elders and people with disabilities, simplifying maintenance over the building’s lifecycle.
Durable plumbing networks and fire-protection systems using corrosion‑resistant materials to withstand on‑reserve conditions.
Results
Affordable, culturally rooted homes – Thirty‑four families and Elders will live in energy‑efficient housing close to community amenities, addressing overcrowding and accessibility concerns.
Low operating costs – High‑efficiency systems and smart controls will reduce utilities and maintenance, supporting the Band’s long‑term financial sustainability.
Model for future projects – This first-of-its-kind on‑reserve funding mechanism demonstrates how provincial and Indigenous partners can collaborate to deliver sustainable housing solutions.
Conclusion
The Seabird Island Band Housing project represents a breakthrough in Indigenous housing policy and mechanical design. By integrating efficient HVAC, plumbing and ventilation systems tailored to diverse unit types, Cohesive Mechanical is helping to build Canada’s first provincially funded on‑reserve rental community—setting a precedent for future partnerships and ensuring residents enjoy safe, comfortable homes for decades to come.
