As wall framing begins on two six-unit apartment buildings at CFB Kingston, the progress marks an important milestone in delivering modern, energy-efficient housing for Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and their families. Kingston is the first Ontario location to use a new six‑plex design. Originally created for CFB Edmonton, the design complies with the National Building Code’s Tier 4 Energy Performance Standards and has been adapted for the site conditions in Ontario.
“The energy efficiency within the buildings is top notch, reducing the carbon footprint while enhancing comfort for residents,” says Lynn Tansey, DCC Team Leader, Program Management. Each 94‑m2 two‑bedroom unit will feature electric heat pumps that provide both heating and cooling, replacing traditional heating-only, gas-fired systems.
The design also responds to the evolving needs of families, with larger, more functional layouts, in‑unit laundry, balconies, amenity space and exterior storage.
The project is part of the Canadian Forces Housing Agency’s (CFHA) $1.4 billion Residential Portfolio Capital Investment Plan (RPCIP). Through Phase 1 of the program, CFHA aims to deliver over 800 new Residential Housing Units and renovate another 638 across Canada by 2030—an effort that will help meet housing needs on base while easing demand in surrounding communities.
At CFB Kingston, utility and infrastructure upgrades and initial sitework are now complete, framing is done for the exterior storage sheds and progressing quickly on the remaining buildings, with completion expected in October 2026.
“DCC is managing the design consultant and construction contracts and has been providing project management support to CHFA throughout this project,” explains Lynn, who played a key role in developing the six-plex design and the wider RPCIP. “Essentially, we’re like the owner’s representative, bringing everything together.”
The same design is being used in Borden, Valcartier and Halifax, with construction expected to begin soon. In Kingston, Phase 1 also includes four 12‑unit apartment buildings, scheduled to break ground this spring—part of a coordinated, national effort to renew and expand military housing.