Statement from Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn on Whistle Bend

Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn has issued the following statement:

“The Government of Yukon continues work to strengthen and grow the vibrant community of Whistle Bend.

“After the City of Whitehorse finalized the Whistle Bend master plan, we were glad to answer the call to make the development of this neighbourhood a priority. Whistle Bend is one of the largest residential neighbourhood developments in the Yukon’s history. The efforts of the Department of Community Services has transformed this area into a thriving neighbourhood where many have found community and a home in the capital.

“Since 2021–22, we have generated approximately 1,100 housing units in Whistle Bend, including single-family, townhouse and apartment buildings. This development is not only giving people a chance to call Whitehorse home but also creating significant employment opportunities in trades and construction. A key achievement is the completion of the state-of-the-art Whistle Bend Elementary School, which represents a significant investment in infrastructure and our children’s future. With a capacity of 425 students from kindergarten to grade seven, the 2024–2025 school year at this new school is off to a great start and I look forward to it becoming a vibrant learning hub for years to come.

“A healthy, thriving neighbourhood presents opportunities for people at every stage of life, while the school welcomes children, Whistle Bend Place, located across the street, now offers 150 units, serving as homes for Seniors and Elders requiring care.

“The dedicated staff at Whistle Bend Place provide round-the-clock care and support of the highest quality for those in need. Each day at Whistle Bend Place, families enjoy time together and children engage in music and traditional cultural activities with residents.

“As Yukon’s population continues to grow and age, we have added 12 long-term care rooms at Whistle Bend Place and are working on further expansions to meet increasing demand.

“We are also committed to new affordable housing projects in Whistle Bend, collaborating with local developers, non-governmental organizations and First Nations to create diverse housing options. For example, the Gleaner Avenue duplexes, led by Habitat for Humanity Yukon, aim to provide accessible housing for four families, funded in part by a $400,000 contribution from Yukon Housing Corporation.

“Another key project is the Winter Crossing development at Casca Boulevard and Olive May Way, across from the new school. This transformative initiative, led by Da Daghay Development Corporation, reflects our commitment to supporting local leadership on housing initiatives.

“A partnership with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation has resulted in a $10 million investment that will provide 105 new affordable housing units once completed, making it the Yukon’s largest affordable housing build to date.

“Project 1096, led by the Northern Community Land Trust Society, features a 32-unit condominium development that will set a precedent for sustainable, affordable housing solutions in the Yukon. Our government is proud to support this initiative with $5 million in combined loans and contributions.

“Whistle Bend, like all Whitehorse neighbourhoods, is surrounded by breathtaking nature, offering residents a variety of outdoor activities, parks and trails. Soon, the new Whitehorse Gymnastics and Climbing Facility will welcome residents to its new home, which – thanks to investments from the Yukon and the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program – triples the size of the club’s current facility and adds a dance studio, climbing gym, parkour training facility and community gathering space.

“Our government is committed to supporting Whistle Bend’s growth and development and to building an inclusive community that enhances the quality of life for all Yukoners.”