At the corner of Victoria and Second Avenue, a four townhouse units are nearing completion, marking the first significant investment in revitalizing downtown Prince George.
The condos are replacing commercial units that burnt down three years ago, the investment coming from Herb Miller, a long time Prince George businessmen.
"I think it's a huge asset to the city, it's the start of the revitalization of the downtown core," said Joe Myatovic, of Myatovic Construction and the general contractor for the townhouses.
"When one developer goes in and starts a major investment like this, it really encourages others to follow suit," he added.
The town houses will be between 1,200 to 1,400 square feet each. With two bedrooms and two full bathrooms (including a soaker tub) upstairs, the main floor, with nine foot ceilings, will have the living room, kitchen, laundry room and another bathroom.
Along with a basement for storage, there will also be covered parking around back.
"We're really making sure to put in the extra effort and investment into these units. It's going to be perfect for people who work in the downtown area, they'll be close enough to walk to work - it's bound to bring more life into the core of the city," said Myatovic.
There has been a lot of interest about the project has been high, he said.
"I've had a lot of people talking about the units. [Miller] is the first to go ahead and take the chance with his own money. It's great to see this type of investment from a long time local businessman," he said.
Myatovic said there has been talks from different outside investors in the past about putting in units, but nobody has followed through.
These units will feature hardwood floors and tile in the interior, and have a red brick exterior. Myatovic and Miller are also making sure the units will reduce outside noise.
"It's designed to be very quiet, with six inch walls, exterior insulation for sound, and then the brick. These will be very quiet buildings," said Myatovic.
Both contractor and owner of the new condos are starting to look into further projects, including mixed commercial and residential complexes, with retail on the ground floor and living space above.
Since the start of the current project, Myatovic said he's already received calls for other housing projects for the downtown area.
The current complex of condos on Victoria Street are ahead of schedule, and are expected to be complete early in the New Year.
