Ground breaking ceremony held for new 43-unit rental apartment building in Victoria

A ground breaking ceremony was held today for a new purpose-built rental building in the heart of Victoria’s downtown core. 

The six-storey, 43-unit building will be called the Alma, and is to be located at 837 Broughton Street, between Blanshard and Quadra Streets. 

The developer, Fort Properties Ltd., says the project’s aim is to replace a surface-level parking lot with rental homes for Victorians to live in.

“The Alma is a labour of love and a commitment to creating a building for people who want to be part of this neighbourhood,” said Suzanne Bradbury, co-owner, Fort Properties. 

“The Fort Common neighbourhood is an urban threshold between a residential community and downtown Victoria, and we look forward to adding key housing to this beautiful area of our city.”

According to Bradbury, the property has been in her family since 1957, and the building that will occupy the space is named for her and her sister’s paternal grandmother, Alma.

This new building will offer 42 one bedroom rental units, as well as one ground-level live/workspace. 

“Purpose-built rental housing has become increasingly critical in Victoria’s housing market,” said Mayor Marianne Alto. 

“Projects like The Alma—privately developed, centrally located, and designed for long-term rental tenure—play a key role in stabilizing supply and giving residents a genuine alternative to the ownership market.”

The Alma is expected to welcome its first residents sometime in 2028.