News

Request for Expressions of Interest

Cushman & Wakefield Atlantic has been working with the Halifax Regional Municipality as they are seeking options for a long-term (5-10 year) shelter solution to provide overnight accommodations for approximately one hundred persons experiencing homelessness. Options could include purchase; lease; design, build and lease; or other options. Target occupancy date is August 15, 2024.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 

• Ability to accommodate one hundred persons for overnight sheltering in a manner that provides privacy and safety for each occupant.
• If in an existing building, the space requirement is estimated at 25,000 usable square feet. HRM reserves the right to adjust the square footage as required subject to the location.
• Preferred location is on the Halifax Peninsula, however locations outside of the Peninsula will be considered provided transit service is available. Minimum of at least one transit route servicing the location between 6am-11pm, 7 days/week; transit stop to be within 250m walking distance of the location.
• The location should be within reasonable proximity to other services and amenities such as pharmacies, grocery stores, banks, etc.
• The location will need have or be built/renovated to have on-site services for occupants such as washrooms, showers, kitchen, and laundry facilities; heating & air conditioning; and appropriate life safety systems for the intended use.
• Ability to control perimeter access to the location to ensure those within are safe and the occupants are known/registered to the site operator. Ideally, the location would allow for multiple areas that can be separately secured to accommodate the diverse needs of occupants.
• Accessibility – The finished space should meet building code for accessibility.
• On-site parking available for 10 – 12 vehicles.

PREFERENCE MAY BE GIVEN TO LOCATIONS WHICH ALSO MEET THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA: 

1. Existing fully accessible spaces
2. Strong connectivity to the Halifax Transit bus network – multiple bus routes with nearby stops.
3. “As is” spaces where current fit up may be repurposed, thus reducing renovation costs, allowing for best value.
4. Landlord or Property Owner willing to complete any required renovations on behalf of HRM. The agreed costs associated with the renovations to be paid as a lump sum upon completion.
5. Additional on-site parking, nearby parking lots, or street parking available.
6. Ability to meet the August 15, 2024, target occupancy date or provide the closest possible occupancy to that date.

Proposals should be submitted by April 3rd, 2024. Anyone with a site(s) that could work are encouraged to contact us today to discuss their potential fit for the Halifax Regional Municipality. Any interest or questions can be directed toward: