You can't just throw some subsidized housing in and hope for the best. Those investors in Sidney did that with an old folks home and the place went into receivership. Someone has to pay for it and if Pacifica Housing or BC Housing or whoever doesn't have the cash to take on a new project then it won't happen.
Now, the idea that this neighbourhood is not a good candidate for low-income housing is ridiculous. Anyplace is a good place for it. It's so dumb I wonder if the person was misquoted. Yes, on the whole, Burnside-Gorge has a disproportionate share of low-income housing but this particular street, which is in a state of evolution can hardly be said to be at the limit.
I don't think anyone is saying the neighborhood doesn't need more
low-income housing, just maybe not more
subsidized housing. The addition of 90+ rental units would be a huge benefit to working people who don't qualify for subsidized housing. (even if it's just to increase supply and exert downward pressure on rents)
I agree with that in terms of the neighborhood not being a great place for young families. I think Ecole Quadra is the closet elementary school, a 15min walk along busy streets. No really close green-spaces. Lack of grocery stores within walking distance (except Lifestyles).
The developer did emphasis the need for affordable housing for all the people that work at Mayfair Mall.