The Canadian Government and Hamilton’s municipal administration have jointly declared their intention to expedite the construction of over 2,600 housing units within the upcoming three years. This initiative is projected to stimulate the development of more than 9,000 homes in the subsequent ten years.
Under the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF), an allocation exceeding $93.5 million will be made to hasten housing construction. This fund will support high-density housing projects near rapid transit zones, especially the forthcoming Hamilton LRT stations. It will also facilitate the utilization of city-owned plots and brownfields for development. Hamilton’s administration has pledged to broaden the scope of zoning permissions for housing, which includes revising zoning regulations to permit the establishment of four residential units on a single plot. These measures are anticipated to considerably enhance housing accessibility in Hamilton.
The HAF is designed to streamline housing projects, targeting the construction of at least 100,000 new homes across Canadian towns, cities, and Indigenous territories. Local governments are invited to propose innovative housing strategies. Upon approval, they receive initial funding to kickstart housing projects, with additional funds disbursed based on achieved milestones. Local administrations are encouraged to adopt ambitious strategies, such as expediting project schedules, endorsing increased housing densities, and promoting affordable housing.
The Canadian Government remains committed to making housing more accessible for its citizens. Collaborative efforts with provincial, territorial, and municipal governments, as well as Indigenous stakeholders, are ongoing to accelerate housing projects.
Statements:
The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure, and Communities, expressed, “Today’s declaration signifies our commitment to fast-tracking over 2,600 approved housing units in the coming three years and 9,000 units in the next ten years. Collaborative efforts with city administrations and various government tiers ensure Canadians have access to affordable housing.”
The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario and MP for Hamilton West—Ancaster—Dundas, stated, “Affordable housing is pivotal for Canadians, enabling them to pursue various life goals. Our continuous investments aim to empower individuals to realize their aspirations.”
Lisa Hepfner, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth and MP for Hamilton Mountain, emphasized, “Every individual deserves stable housing. Our collaboration with Hamilton aims to provide homes for diverse groups, from families to displaced seniors. Our goal is to expedite the construction of 100,000 homes nationwide.”
Chad Collins, MP for Hamilton East-Stoney Creek, remarked, “The HAF is a transformative initiative, fostering innovation and collaboration with local governments to address housing needs. Our vision is to cultivate affordable, diverse, and inclusive communities.”
Andrea Horwath, Mayor of Hamilton, expressed gratitude for the federal government’s $93.5 million investment through the HAF, emphasizing the city’s commitment to diverse housing solutions.
Additional Information:
Today’s announcement was led by The Honourable Filomena Tassi, representing The Honourable Sean Fraser, and was joined by Lisa Hepfner, Chad Collins, and Mayor Andrea Horwath.
Hamilton has pledged to revamp its residential zoning to streamline housing construction and expand housing zoning permissions.
Federal HAF allocations are contingent on specific conditions, including Hamilton City Council’s endorsement of re-zoning initiatives.
Hamilton’s other housing initiatives encompass programs like the Acceleration Program for Dwelling Units, Rapid Transit Housing Grant Program, and support for housing on Remediated Brownfield Sites.
Launched in March 2023, the HAF, a $4 billion initiative, will operate until 2026-27. It’s a segment of Canada’s National Housing Strategy (NHS), an $82+ billion program. Updates on the NHS are available quarterly at www.placetocallhome.ca, showcasing various housing projects.
Since the NHS’s inception, the Canadian Government has allocated over $36.82 billion, supporting the creation of over 113,467 units and the refurbishment of over 126,011 units, prioritizing the most vulnerable populations.
