Quebec to convert former Institute for the Deaf in Plateau-Mont-Royal into housing [Video]

After sitting vacant for nearly a decade, the province is set to convert the former Institute for the Deaf in Plateau-Mont-Royal into housing.

The government of Quebec, which owns the building, is working closely with the City of Montreal on the project.

“In the last weeks and months, we perceive an opening to discuss and to find a solution and to discuss together a common proposal to test the market,” said Plateau-Mont-Royal Mayor Luc Rabouin.

Affordable housing advocates say the massive structure is a golden opportunity.

“If this opportunity is not taken to develop units that are really, truly affordable for the people who are now at risk of being on the street, it will be a terrible shame,” said Margaret Van Nooten with community organization Project Genesis.

The city says it will respect its housing bylaw that requires a developer to build 20 per cent social housing. An estimated …