Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was in Yellowknife on Thursday to announce a new housing project in the city.

A new affordable housing complex consisting of 50 units will be built in the downtown area, and residents can move in by 2025.

The Prime Minister acknowledged that the North faces unique challenges when it comes to building new homes, including high costs, difficulties in purchasing materials, and a lack of labor.

Funding also comes from the Quick Housing Initiative launched by the federal government. The City of Yellowknife provided the land – a contribution worth $825,000 – and the territorial government will provide operational grants.

Housing Minister Paulie Chinna said the building will be a mix of bachelor units and two-bedroom apartments.

Mayor of Yellowknife Rebecca Alty also stated that this is the third project approved by the city under the Quick Housing Initiative, which includes YWCA and Aspen apartments.

She added that 107 units have been added to the city’s housing stock in the past three years.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also visited the area on Wednesday to assess the damage caused by wildfires in the northwest of the country.