Construction is underway on the first phase of Harris Green Village, a three-phase, mixed-use development that will add more than 1,500 rental homes to downtown Victoria.

According to Starlight Investments, Harris Green Village is the city’s largest multi-family housing project to date. It will feature 526 rental suites, including 80 affordable units, along with commercial and retail space. When complete, the project will include 100,000 square feet of shops and services.

“We are thrilled to begin construction on this transformational mixed-use community that is set to become a lively focal point in the city,” said Howard Paskowitz, vice president, development and public affairs, Starlight Investments. “Harris Green Village showcases Starlight’s commitment to increasing the availability of much-needed rental housing while keeping the unique needs and characteristics of each community at the forefront of design.”

Harris Green Village will feature publicly accessible open spaces and a street-facing plaza alongside residential green space. Amenities will include courtyards, outdoor barbecue and dining areas, children’s play areas, dog runs, lounges, fitness studios and rooftop social spaces.

Phase one will start at 1045 Yates St. and will consist of two towers (one 20-storey tower and one 21-storey tower).

“The Harris Green Village development is a demonstration of Victoria’s forward-thinking approach to driving purpose-built rental housing,” said Mayor Marianne Alto. “This is exactly the kind of vibrant, community-driven growth we can expect as the City continues to create more opportunities for housing and community spaces in the downtown core.”

The project is a joint venture between ITC Construction Group and Farmer Construction. Arcadis (formerly IBI Group) is serving as the architect.