PRINCE RUPERT, B.C. -- Prince Rupert city council is hosting a public hearing on August 23rd at the Lester Centre for the Arts to discuss a proposed housing project on Edwards Avenue and 11th Avenue East.

The project is a collaboration between the city, BC Housing and the Lax Kw'alaams WAAP Housing Society. If built, it will provide 70 afforable rental units to Law Kw'alaams band members.

The upcoming hearing will give city residents the chance to express their thoughts on the building, while council weighs rezoning the project's location to a multi-family residential zone.

The project has proven somewhat contentious. A petition against it garnered 91 signatures, while a petition in support collected 567.

Concerns have revolved around its potential impact on traffic, wildlife and property values, while supporters have stressed the need for more affordable housing in the city.