Construction is steadily moving forward at 471 Kathleen Avenue, where a new affordable and supportive housing development is taking shape in Sarnia.
The three storey apartment building will deliver 50 single bedroom units, including 14 barrier free supportive housing units to be operated by March of Dimes. The project is being developed by the County of Lambton and is intended to expand access to safe, accessible housing for residents who need additional supports. Occupancy is expected in the fall of 2026.
According to project updates, construction remains on schedule. The superstructure has been completed, and the building is expected to be fully enclosed before the end of 2025. Once enclosed, interior work will continue toward final completion. The current anticipated total project cost is approximately $16.5 million.
The project is being built by S.E.M. Construction, which was awarded the contract following a competitive bidding process. Multiple construction firms submitted tenders, with bids ranging from just over $13.3 million to more than $16.5 million. S.E.M. Construction submitted the lowest compliant bid at $13,353,585.89 and was formally awarded the contract on May 26, 2025.
A Functional Servicing Report prepared on behalf of the County of Lambton outlines how the development will integrate with existing municipal infrastructure. The site will include two access driveways at the east and west ends of the property connecting to Kathleen Avenue. The parking area will be at the rear of the building alongside a paved loading zone and service entrance. Landscaping and recreational space are also part of the overall site design.
Photographs documenting the construction progress, provided by the Corporation of the County of Lambton and S.E.M. Construction, show significant advancement on site as the project moves from structural work toward enclosure.
The Kathleen Avenue development reflects Lambton County’s broader push to rapidly expand affordable and supportive housing as demand continues to rise across the region. County council declared housing and homelessness its top priority in 2024, citing growing pressures on shelters and community housing wait lists. The Kathleen Avenue site was identified as the most viable option to move forward quickly due to its county ownership, existing zoning work, and readiness for development. Once completed, the Kathleen Avenue development will add much needed affordable and supportive housing to the community, while incorporating accessible design and modern site planning to support residents well into the future.
