The Government of Canada is taking steps to make housing more affordable in Ontario. Through the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF), the federal government is working with local communities to speed up the building of new homes. This initiative aims to reduce obstacles that slow down housing projects, ensuring that more homes are built quickly to meet the needs of Canadians.
Recently, the government announced agreements with several First Nations in Northern Ontario, including Long Lake #58 First Nation, Red Rock Indian Band, and others. These agreements will fast-track the construction of over 200 housing units in the next three years, with a goal of building more than 1,400 homes over the next decade. The HAF is providing over $15.3 million to these communities to remove barriers and accelerate housing development.
In Toronto, the federal government has partnered with the city to expedite nearly 12,000 new housing units over the next three years. This collaboration is expected to lead to the construction of more than 53,000 homes over the next ten years. The agreement includes over $471 million in funding to eliminate obstacles to housing development. Plans involve allowing more housing options, such as multiplexes up to four storeys, and encouraging affordable rental units near public transit.
The Housing Accelerator Fund is a $4 billion initiative designed to help cities, towns, and Indigenous governments unlock new housing supply through innovative approaches. It encourages local governments to think creatively and be bold in their strategies, which could include speeding up project timelines, allowing increased housing density, and promoting affordable housing units.
The Government of Canada is committed to making life more affordable for Canadians, with housing being a key focus. By working with various partners, including Indigenous communities and municipal governments, the federal government aims to build more homes at prices Canadians can afford. These efforts are part of the broader National Housing Strategy, an $82+ billion plan to provide more Canadians with a place to call home.
Through initiatives like the Housing Accelerator Fund, the government is addressing the housing crisis by removing barriers and accelerating the construction of new homes. These actions are intended to ensure that Canadians across the country have access to safe, affordable housing in the communities they call home.