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East 11th Redevelopment

Project Vision

Coast Mental Health is guided by the belief that mental health is shaped by stable housing, meaningful connections, and supportive environments. The East 11th redevelopment is about creating a place where people from all walks of life can feel safe, supported, and part of a community. At the heart of the project is a simple belief: stable housing is foundational to good mental health and wellbeing. By bringing affordable homes together with on-site supports and community spaces, East 11th is designed to help people build stability, connection, and a sense of belonging.

What This Project Delivers

The East 11th redevelopment brings together housing, services, and community infrastructure to offer an upstream response to intersecting challenges in housing affordability, mental health, and community resilience. The proposed project would include:

  • 370 non‑market rental homes delivered through a mixed‑income model
  • 15-20 homes with 24/7 support services
  • Expanded mental wellness and community services
  • A new Community Health Centre, alongside commercial and employment space
  • A proven, integrated model of community‑based care

The Program: Delivering Sustained Outcomes Together

The East 11th project is a once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity to re‑imagine how housing, mental healthcare, and community spaces can work together. By bringing homes and services into a single, integrated campus, the project supports prevention, early intervention, and connection, reducing reliance on crisis‑based responses and easing pressure on public systems and strengthening long-term wellbeing.

What This Project Delivers for People and Communities

The East 11th redevelopment will build an inclusive, mixed-income community that supports stability, recovery and wellbeing. It will deliver homes for seniors, families, people with disabilities, people in recovery, and working professionals, alongside others with low or moderate incomes. Thoughtful design, shared amenities and access to care are intended to reduce isolation and stigma, while strengthening connections among residents. The result is a valuable asset that benefits both residents and the broader community.

A Community Focused Campus in Mount Pleasant

The East 11th project is more than an affordable housing development. It transforms Coast Mental Health’s headquarters into a community‑focused campus in Mount Pleasant, building on more than 50 years of Coast operating in and contributing to the local community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Section 1: What is happening at East 11th?

Coast Mental Health is rezoning our headquarters site at 259–293 East 11th Avenue and 216 Kingsway, located in Mount Pleasant at the heart of Vancouver. Since 1972, Coast Mental Health has been a trusted non-profit organization supporting people living with mental illness to recover, thrive, and fully participate in their communities. For over more than five decades, we have grown into one of the largest providers of community-based mental health services in British Columbia, recognized for our commitment to dignity, recovery, and long-term stability.

With funding support from BC Housing for up to 370 non‑market rental homes through a mixed‑income model, along with 15-20 homes with 24/7 support services for people in recovery, this proposal aligns closely with City and Provincial priorities for inclusive, transit-oriented, non-market housing. The project will deliver a mixed and vibrant residential community, including many residents who do not have a mental illness diagnosis, alongside those who may benefit from access to on-site supports. This inclusive approach reflects our belief that mental health exists on a continuum, and that designing housing for wellness benefits everyone, not only those who are currently unwell.

The current site no longer meets today’s needs. Over time, mental health, substance use, and housing affordability challenges have intensified across Vancouver, while existing systems are often fragmented and  respond only once people are already in crisis.

Redeveloping East 11th allows Coast Mental Health to address these challenges in a more effective, preventative way. The project will deliver significantly more non-market housing, modern and accessible facilities, and co-located services that support stability, recovery, and long-term wellbeing.

By integrating housing with health and community supports in one place, the redevelopment reduces fragmentation, improves outcomes for residents, and helps relieve pressure on hospitals, emergency services, and other crisis-based systems. It reflects what Coast has learned over more than five decades and applies those lessons at a scale that responds to today’s reality.

Section 2: Tenant and Club House Members Support and Relocation (East 11)

All current tenants will be offered the opportunity to move into a new home on the redeveloped site that meets their individual needs. This includes the right to return once construction is complete, if they choose. Coast is committed to ensuring that no one is displaced without a suitable housing option and that residents can remain connected to their community, supports and services.

Coast will work to minimize disruption and will support anyone affected by the redevelopment at East 11, in line with the City of Vancouver’s Tenant Relocation and Protection Policy. This includes individualized relocation planning, clear communication, and appropriate supports throughout the transition. Any impacts will be carefully planned and managed with a focus on stability, dignity and continuity of care.

If relocation is required as part of the redevelopment, Coast will fully comply with the City of Vancouver’s Tenant Relocation and Protection Policy and will work one-on-one with each affected tenant to develop a plan that meets their specific housing and support needs.

This will include:

  • Early and transparent communication about timelines, options and next steps so tenants know what to expect and can plan ahead
  • Individualized relocation planning that reflects each person’s health, accessibility requirements, cultural considerations and support needs
  • Active coordination to maintain continuity of care and services, including connections to existing care teams, programs and supports
  • Practical and ongoing support throughout the transition, from move planning to settling into a new home

Our approach is to ensure tenants are supported, informed and treated with dignity at every stage of the process.

The redevelopment will include a replacement for the Clubhouse and Young Adult space. During construction the Clubhouse will operate from an interim location.

Services will continue throughout the redevelopment, including programming for the Young Adult Program and the Clubhouse, at an interim location though there will be some temporary adjustments and changes. Coast will work to minimize disruption, maintain staffing and service delivery, and ensure continuity of care.

Members will also be actively engaged as part of this evolution, with opportunities to provide input and help shape how programs and spaces adapt over time

Section 3: Community planning and project direction

The project will include approximately:

  • 370 non‑market rental homes
  • 15-20 homes with 24/7 support services
  • A mixed‑income housing model, including moderate‑income homes, to support inclusion and long‑term community stability
  • The final mix of unit sizes will be confirmed through the planning and design process.

A mixed‑income approach allows people with different incomes, life stages, and needs to live in the same community. This promotes social inclusion, reduces stigma, and creates a more stable and resilient neighbourhood over time.

Section 4: Project planning and approvals

Community engagement will be an ongoing part of the planning process.  Coast will share information and provide opportunities for neighbours and community members to ask questions as the project moves through this process.

Planning and approvals will take place over multiple stages. Construction will happen in phases once approvals are in place. Timelines will be confirmed as plans are finalized.

Section 5: Housing, services, and daily life

Most residents will live independently in non‑market rental homes. The project includes 370 non‑market rental units, alongside a smaller number of supportive housing units, approximately 15 to 20, for people who need additional on‑site support.

Housing is located above shared spaces that include health care, recovery services, community space and Coast head office operations. This design allows people who need supports to access them where they live, while most residents live independently, supporting stability, choice and long‑term recovery.

Coast Mental Health has operated its head office and provided mental health services in this area for more than 50 Years and has long been part of the local community.

On‑site services are expected to continue and include mental health and primary care,  peer‑led recovery programs, employment and skills training, and community programming. These services are designed to support both residents and the broader community.

The housing design includes family‑sized units , including a mix of two, three, four-bedroom units, accessible features, and proximity to health and community services. This supports people to age in place and remain connected to their community as their needs change.

Section 6: Neighbourhood impacts

The East 11th redevelopment aims to deliver:

  • New affordable housing: A major influx of much-needed affordable non-market housing in a central area with excellent services and transit options.
  • Housing with a mental wellness focus: Expands Coast Mental Health’s mission by providing dignified housing options for people who need stability and mental health supports.
  • Expanded mental health and community services: Updates and broadens Coast’s offerings, including counseling, training, and peer supports.
  • New Community Health Centre: Provides much-needed clinical services for the neighbourhood.
  • New Community Hub for events: Features a large multi-purpose space and green areas for arts events, lectures, and performances—creating a vibrant community square.
  • Commercial and employment spaces: Street-level spaces for social enterprises and businesses aligned with Coast’s vision.
  • Outstanding public realm improvements: lush landscaping, deep sidewalks, new street trees, seating, and bike parking—transforming the corner of East 11th and Kingsway into an inviting, active space.
  • Opportunities for public art: Builds on Coast’s tradition of murals and integrates meaningful, large-scale art into the new development.

Traffic impact will be carefully managed through thoughtful design and planning:

  • Servicing and parking tucked away: Despite the scale of the project, new parking, loading, and servicing will be located at parkade levels, reducing congestion and visual impact.
  • Improved streetscape: Removal of the dusty traffic island at East 11th and Kingsway, replaced with deep sidewalks, greenery, and bike parking to encourage walkability.
  • Transit-oriented location: The site is in a central area with outstanding transportation options, reducing reliance on private vehicles.

Studies show that property values immediately surrounding non-market housing and supportive housing sites typically keep pace with the trends of the surrounding municipality. The East 11th redevelopment is designed as a high-quality, inclusive development that aims to enhance the neighbourhood’s overall appeal and stability. This is one of several projects along Kingsway that are expected to increase livability and property values.  

Section 7: Addressing common community concerns

The East 11th redevelopment includes 24/7 on‑site staffing to address community safety concerns as they arise and enhance safety and wellbeing through a range of integrated design and operational features.

  • Community Hub (CH):  The Community Hub will be a welcoming, low-barrier environment that fosters community integration and reduces stigma around mental health. It will offer inclusive, recovery-oriented spaces for both tenants and residents, including arts and culture spaces, multi-purpose rooms, a social enterprise café, and a low-cost meal service. By providing a central, vibrant place for positive interaction and support, the Hub helps build connections and a sense of belonging, which are proven to improve safety and reduce isolation.
  • Recovery and Support Centre (RSC): The RSC will deliver psychosocial rehabilitation and supported employment programs in a safe, recovery-oriented setting. It will serve as a centralized access point for a variety of programs, supporting both youth and adults as they transition through different stages of recovery. This continuity of care and focus on meaningful activity helps prevent crises and supports long-term stability.
  • Design and Public Realm: The project emphasizes open space, greenery, and thoughtful building design to create a safe, accessible, and inviting environment. Shared amenities, rooftop spaces, and activity rooms encourage positive interactions among residents and with the broader neighbourhood, further supporting safety and inclusion.

Mount Pleasant has been Coast Mental Health’s home for generations. Coast has more than 50 years of experience operating supportive and non‑market housing. The campus will be actively managed 24/7 with on‑site staff, clear policies, and strong partnerships to ensure it remains well‑run and responsive over time.

Section 8: Staying informed and involved

Coast will share information and provide opportunities for neighbours and community members to ask questions as the project moves through this process. Updates and opportunities to learn more will be shared as they become available.

Section 9: About The East 11 Project, Impact & Outcome

Mount Pleasant has been Coast’s home for generations, and its location at the heart of Vancouver makes it an ideal place to demonstrate how inclusive, preventative housing can strengthen the city as a whole. Located at East 11th Avenue and Kingsway, near Vancouver General Hospital, Mt. Saint Joseph Hospital, and the future St. Paul’s Hospital, the campus enables meaningful integration between hospital-based and community-based mental health care.

East 11th is designed to help prevent problems before they become emergencies. By providing stable, affordable housing with thoughtful design and access to supports when needed, the campus helps people stay housed, healthier and more connected. This can reduce the need for emergency room visits, hospital stays and other crisis‑based services.

Bringing housing, health supports and community services together in one place makes it easier for people to get help early and consistently. Over time, this approach reduces pressure on public services and supports safer, healthier outcomes for residents and the wider neighbourhood.

The project is relying on a combination of funding from the Province of BC through BC Housing, Coast Mental Health, and philanthropic support.

Section 10:

No single housing development can guarantee impacts, but decades of research show that stable housing with supports reduces homelessness, disruption, not increases it.

The East 11th campus is designed to be a neighbourhood asset, with active street‑level uses, community‑serving spaces, and a mix of residents. By reducing crisis situations and creating opportunities for connection and participation, the project supports a healthier local environment for businesses, residents, and visitors.

Project Timeline

  • Rezoning and public engagement: Mid 2026 to early 2027
  • Construction: Starting in 2028
  • Project anticipated completion & initial leasing: 2031

Location

Contact

For general inquiries:
east11redevelopment@ coastmentalhealth.com

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Translation

Translated versions of the public leaflet will be available in five languages:

  • Traditional Chinese
  • French
  • Tagalog
  • Punjabi
  • Hindi

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