The Government of Canada and the City of Burlington announced an agreement to fast track more than 600 housing units over the next three years and help spur the construction of more than 5,000 homes over the next decade.
The agreement under the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF), will provide more than $21 million to eliminate barriers to building the housing we need, faster. Burlington’s Action Plan commits to seven local initiatives that support greater density, such as permitting four units as-of-right to encourage the creation of additional housing units on existing residential lots, and exploring opportunities to incentivize the creation of rental housing that is below market housing.
“Today’s announcement will help fast track more than 600 homes for the residents of Burlington in the next three years and more than 5,000 over the next decade. By working with cities, mayors, and all levels of government, we are helping to get more homes built for Canadians at prices they can afford,” said Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities.
Through its Action Plan, Burlington will also create the Housing Connections Centre, enabling the city to act as a connector and a partner among the various players in the housing system. It will also streamline planning and building approvals processes, explore opportunities for partnerships on public land development, and address municipal infrastructure needs.
“Our government is proud to be working with the City of Burlington to ensure we are doing our part to fulfill the housing needs in our city and indeed across Canada. This funding of $21 million for housing in Burlington will accelerate the development of safe and affordable housing to meet the needs of our rapidly growing city where we need it most,” said Karina Gould, MP for Burlington.
HAF is helping cut red tape and fast track at least 100,000 permitted new homes over the first three years, which cities and regions estimate will lead to the creation of almost 450,000 permitted new homes for people in towns, cities, and Indigenous communities across Canada over the next decade. It asks for innovative action plans from local governments, and once approved, provides upfront funding to ensure the timely building of new homes, as well as additional funds 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.
“This is a huge investment in building more homes, and especially more affordable homes, for our growing city. Together, we’re creating the Burlington of the future – a thriving community where everyone has access to a home they can afford. This is key to making sure we remain one of the most liveable cities in Canada,” said Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward.
Featured image: (Government of Canada)
