Site preparation to begin at 39900 Government Road
Site preparation involving tree removal is anticipated to begin later this week at 39900 Government Road and Centennial Way. This is the site of the proposed supportive and affordable housing development currently in planning and permitting with the District of Squamish.
Tree removal is expected to take approximately two weeks and is taking place now to avoid bird nesting season (see below*). The District of Squamish has issued the required Tree Management Permit for this work after a thorough environmental review of the application that included the necessary due diligence and assessment by a Qualified Environmental Professional. An Environmental Monitor will oversee this work to ensure nests are not present.
What to expect:
- The informal access path through the site will be closed during tree work and reopened afterward.
- Temporary fencing will be installed.
- Brief, intermittent traffic delays are possible as trucks enter/exit the site.
- Tree stumps will remain in place for now.
For the most current application materials, visit: squamish.ca/development-review-and-local-projects
Learn more about the project at: letstalkhousingbc.ca/squamish-government-road
Funding update:
The supportive housing project proposed on the south side of the site is funded and continues to move forward.
The affordable housing project proposed on the north side of the site did not receive provincial funding through the Community Housing Fund in the recent provincial budget. Squamish Housing will be exploring alternative funding opportunities to advance the project, and the District will continue to consider the Development Permit application for the affordable housing component. Advancing the approvals process and being “shovel ready” will strengthen the project’s competitiveness with future funding partners.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Will the affordable housing project still go ahead without CHF funding?
While it is extremely disappointing that the affordable housing project proposed on the north side of the site did not receive funding through the Community Housing Fund at this time, Squamish Housing will be exploring alternative funding opportunities to advance the project. As noted above, the District is continuing to consider the Development Permit application for the affordable housing component. Advancing the approvals process and being “shovel ready” will strengthen the project’s competitiveness with future funding partners.
Why are the trees being removed if the affordable housing project is not proceeding at this time?
The supportive housing project proposed on the south side of the site is funded and continues to move forward. In order to construct this building, clearing of the full site is necessary to establish finished grades and enable construction of the retaining walls, drive aisle, and parking area associated with the supportive housing development. In addition, tree removal is required to facilitate relocation of underground utilities and the multi-use path, which will proceed as part of the supportive housing project.
What about replacement planting?
Replacement planting on site is addressed through the proposed landscape plan, which generally includes new canopy trees positioned around the site’s perimeter, along with a 2.5‑metre landscaped buffer on the western edge (adjacent to the mobile home park) and additional plantings at other strategic locations. Additional off‑site habitat compensation will be provided to supplement on‑site compensation efforts.
*What considerations will be given to the owls that have been sighted in the area?
Barred owls are common throughout Squamish and are known to be well established in the area. The barred owl is not listed as threatened or endangered in British Columbia and does not have specific habitat protections that would preclude trees on this site from being cleared in accordance with the Tree Management Permit. While they may roost in forested areas, roosting does not necessarily indicate that they are nesting.
The Wildlife Act prohibits the destruction of an occupied bird nest. Prior to clearing, the Environmental Monitor will conduct a pre-clearing check for nests and advise the contractor to stop work immediately if any active nests or nesting behaviour are observed. If a nest is identified, work will cease and appropriate species-specific buffers will be implemented in accordance with provincial guidelines.
What opportunities do the public have to weigh in?
As a rezoning is not required for supportive or affordable housing projects in Squamish, the partners are continuing to provide detailed information on the project to neighbours and the broad community. An information open house, direct mail, online information, and a detailed engagement report have helped gather and respond to questions. As operational plans continue to evolve, the partners – BC Housing, District of Squamish, Squamish Helping Hands and Squamish Housing – will continue to update residents.
Where can I learn more?
A Community FAQ, an Engagement Summary Report, and general project information are available at: Letstalkhousingbc.ca/squamish-government-road
The District’s Development Review also provides Development Permit information: squamish.ca/development-review
March 3, 2026