To make progress towards solving the housing crisis we need to build more homes at prices that Canadians can afford, faster. To do this we need to end restrictive zoning and speed up permitting, and add greater density, especially near transit and post-secondary institutions. The Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) will cut this red tape and fast-track at least 112,000 new homes by 2028, which cities and regions estimate will lead to the creation of over 750,000 new homes for people in towns, cities, and Indigenous communities across Canada over the next decade.
Today, the Government of Canada and the City of North Bay announced that they reached an agreement to accelerate the construction of 337 homes over the next three years. This work will help spur the construction of 4,188 homes over the next decade. This agreement under the second round of the HAF, will provide over $10.6 million to eliminate barriers to building the housing we need, faster.
HAF requires action plans from local governments, unlocking funding to ensure the timely implementation of housing initiatives, with subsequent payments upon delivering results. Local governments are encouraged to think big and be bold in their approaches, which could include accelerating project timelines, allowing increased housing density, and encouraging affordable housing units.
The City of North Bay’s Action Plan commits to seven local initiatives such as supporting infill housing with zoning amendments to allow four units as-of-right within the City’s urban area, complimented by a reduction of parking requirements. Development of affordable housing will be incentivized through the reduction of fees through waivers and grants. North Bay will make city lands available for affordable housing development. The Action Plan will reduce approval timelines through streamlining processes, introducing technological innovations such as e-permitting and providing additional staff for service support.
The Government of Canada is making life more affordable for Canadians — and housing is key to our work. We will continue to work with provincial, territorial, and municipal governments, as well as Indigenous partners, to keep building more homes for Canadians, faster.
Quotes:
“Our government is committed to removing barriers and cutting red tape to enable housing development, and these partnerships with Ontario communities will do just that.” – The Honourable Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
“Building more homes for people in North Bay, faster. That’s how the federal government is solving the housing crisis. Working with the City of North Bay, we are going to make sure families have safe, affordable places to live.” – Anthony Rota, Member of Parliament for Nipissing—Timiskaming
"The City of North Bay has made housing accessibility and affordability a priority, and this funding will help us take action. With support from the Housing Accelerator Fund, we can advance key initiatives to create more housing options for seniors, young families, and those who need it most. We look forward to the positive impact this investment will have on our community." – Peter Chirico, Mayor, the City of North Bay
Quick Facts:
Progress on programs and initiatives are updated quarterly on the Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada (HICC) website. The Housing Funding Initiatives Map shows affordable housing projects that have been developed.
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