Released December 21, 2007

Exterior Renovation Work Completed on Public Housing in Chamberlains

Over $162,000 in modernization and improvement work has been completed on Newfoundland Labrador Housing (Housing) residences in Chamberlains. The exterior renovation work was done by Coastal Building Products and Services Ltd. who was awarded the contract this past fall. The Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister Responsible for Housing and Minister of Human Resources, Labour and Employment, and Terry French, MHA, Conception Bay South, made the announcement today.

"Refurbishment work on these units has been long over due, and I’m pleased this work has now been finished. Like many communities throughout our province, the people of Chamberlains are proud of their neighbourhoods. These recent renovations will enhance the community, as well as provide safe and affordable housing to our tenants," said Minister Skinner.

The contract for this modernization and improvement work included installation of new windows, vinyl siding, door replacements, and new roofs for eight houses. In the 2007-08 Budget, the Provincial Government announced a significant $27.5 million funding increase, over five years, to maintain the Crown corporation’s aging and deteriorating houses. This funding will more than double the resources available to modernize and improve the current provincial social housing homes.

"Thanks to Housing, the residents of Chamberlains now have an upgraded and modernized neighbourhood, which will provide increased comfort to the families living in these units. With the renovations also comes enhanced street appearance and an improved living environment for the community," said Mr. French.