Government invests $303.5 million to support low-income households
Construction is underway for 889 new affordable housing units in Montreal, marking a major investment in the city’s non-market housing sector. The initiative, backed by all levels of government, aims to provide sustainable housing solutions for families, individuals at risk of homelessness, and people with special needs.
The $303.5 million project is a collaborative effort between the federal, provincial, and municipal governments, along with various technical housing resource groups. The investment breakdown includes $112.3 million from the federal government, $161.8 million from the Quebec government, and $29.4 million from the City of Montreal.
The new units are being developed in partnership with Atelier Habitation Montréal, Groupe CDH, and Romel, organizations dedicated to supporting community housing initiatives. The units, expected to be occupied by over 570 households by the end of 2025, will offer a mix of housing types, including:
- Multi-bedroom family units (two, three, or four bedrooms).
- Intergenerational co-operative housing.
- Transitional and permanent housing for vulnerable populations, including women fleeing violence, youth, individuals with autism spectrum disorder, and those experiencing mental health challenges.
Additionally, three-quarters of the households may qualify for the Société d'habitation du Québec's (SHQ) Rent Supplement Program, ensuring that rent does not exceed 25% of household income. The program is jointly funded, with 90% covered by SHQ and 10% by the City of Montreal.
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With housing affordability remaining a critical issue, the announcement of these new units aligns with broader efforts to accelerate housing development across Quebec. Officials said the project is part of a larger strategy to build more affordable housing faster while ensuring long-term sustainability.
"Projects like these, aimed at building more housing more quickly, can be found across Quebec, and I fully intend to see more of them,” France-Élaine Duranceau, Quebec Minister responsible for housing, said in a statement.
"Many of the units announced today are located on land ceded by the Ville de Montréal, a measure that adds to our administration's unprecedented efforts to house more Montrealers, regardless of their income or situation,” added Valérie Plante, mayor of Montréal. “These 889 additional non-market units in Montreal will contribute directly to our goal of achieving 20% non-market housing in Montreal by 2050."
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