The site of the former Macaulay Lodge in Riverdale is now available for purchase through a tender process.

The lot at 2 Klondike Rd. is zoned to allow for mixed commercial and residential uses, and requires that any commercial use be accompanied by residential use.

The minimum bid price for the 0.45 hectare lot is set at the market value ($1,080,000).

“These zoning requirements will help contribute to housing diversity and availability in Whitehorse,” the Yukon government said last Thursday.

“The Government of Yukon strongly encourages potential purchasers to consider opportunities for funding programs from the Yukon Housing Corporation, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and incentives from the City of Whitehorse that promote affordable, social and supportive housing.”

The government called the tender process part of the ongoing efforts to help build a sustainable housing future.

“Our government is committed to creating opportunities that address our housing challenges through diverse options that respond to the needs of Yukoners,” said Premier Ranj Pillai, the minister responsible for the Yukon Housing Corp.

“Sales of mixed-use lots like 2 Klondike Road present unique opportunities for developers and the community to accommodate commercial ventures and housing that increase community vibrancy.”

The Macaulay Lodge, a long-term care facility that opened in 1969, was demolished in September 2022.

After demolition, the parcel was consolidated into one large lot (Lot 24) from five smaller lots and rezoned from Public Service to Comprehensive Neighbourhood Commercial site-specific zoning which aligns with the Official Community Plan designation and allows for a range of uses, including supportive housing.

The property will be subject to a three-year sale agreement that requires the purchaser to build a zoning compliant structure within three years.

“The much-anticipated release of 2 Klondike Road provides an exciting opportunity for new development in Whitehorse,” said Energy, Mines and Resources Minister John Streicker.

This spring, following the sale of 2 Klondike Rd., the government will be releasing more lots, including Phase seven in Whistle Bend.