CCOC Beaver Barracks Development

Beaver Barracks is a large affordable housing project in downtown Ottawa, built by the non-profit Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation (CCOC). It was developed on a former military site with support from the City of Ottawa’s Action Ottawa programme to create sustainable, affordable homes for people with low and moderate incomes.
The project includes 254 apartments of various sizes, offered at market, below-market, and subsidised rents. It also has space for community services and businesses. Fifteen per cent of units are for people who need daily support, including those with disabilities or who were previously homeless. All buildings are wheelchair accessible.
Beaver Barracks stands out for its focus on sustainability. The homes use geothermal heating and cooling, solar energy, triple-glazed windows, and rainwater systems. Tenants commit to green living by sorting waste, using shared gardens, and joining eco-friendly workshops. The development promotes walking, biking, and public transit over car use.
Community involvement is central. Residents helped shape the project’s design and now lead gardens, social events, and workshops. Tenants from all income levels live in similar quality homes, and activities help build strong community ties.
The $64 million project was funded through a mix of government grants, tenant rents, and mortgages. It’s expected to become self-sustaining after several years. It also helped improve the local neighbourhood, adding more families and life to the area.
Beaver Barracks has inspired future projects by showing how green, inclusive, and affordable housing can work well together. CCOC continues to monitor energy use and social impact to guide improvements and share lessons with others.