January marked the start of a new year of construction in Chilliwack with a mix of activity across sectors. A major apartment project on Spadina Avenue accounted for nearly all new housing units, while commercial and industrial permits remained modest, focused more on renovations and signage than new builds. Agricultural permits were light but steady, hinting at the kinds of rural investment that tend to build gradually through the year. While it wasn’t a groundbreaking month in terms of volume, the permits issued lay the groundwork for several projects about to get underway.
The standout permit for January was issued for a six-storey, 64-unit affordable housing development at 45835 Spadina Avenue, on the former site of Cheam View United Church. The project is being developed through a partnership between Mamele'awt Qweesome/To'o Housing Society and Cheam View United Church, and represents one of the most meaningful multi-family projects to move forward in Chilliwack this year.
Designed to serve seniors, low-income families, and individuals with mobility challenges, the building will also include a dedicated community space—a “club/lodge” area meant to carry forward the site’s long-standing role as a place of gathering and support. In addition to delivering much-needed affordable rental housing, the development honors the legacy of the church while adding to the city’s urban fabric in a thoughtful and inclusive way.
This permit alone accounted for 64 of the 74 residential units approved city-wide in January, continuing a strong start to the year for multi-family development. At a time when the city is under pressure to add housing options, especially for vulnerable populations, projects like this show how partnerships and purpose-built design can contribute to long-term solutions.
Commercial permits in January were on the lighter side. There were no new commercial buildings, and only a handful of tenant improvements were recorded. That said, eight tenant improvement permits were issued, and five sign permits were approved, including updates for businesses along Luckakuck Way, Yale Road, and Industrial Way.
While nothing major broke through this month, these kinds of permits tend to precede new businesses opening or existing ones making space for growth. They’re a good indicator that commercial activity is still bubbling under the surface, even if the skyline isn’t shifting just yet.
The industrial sector saw only a single permit in January, but it’s worth mentioning. A $220,000 improvement permit was issued for 44921 Commercial Court, listed as an interior alteration. It’s not a new build, but it does signal continued use and reinvestment in Chilliwack’s industrial space.
No new industrial buildings were approved this month, making it the quietest category overall. Whether that’s a temporary pause or a reflection of limited available land is something to watch in the coming months.
Agricultural permits were limited in January, with just two permits issued totaling a little under $200,000. The largest was for an animal building on South Sumas Road, while the other was a small storage addition.
Even with fewer projects on the list, these early-year permits suggest steady maintenance and incremental upgrades as farmers prepare for the growing season ahead.
