New projects address housing crisis, target families, seniors, and people with disabilities
The governments of Canada and Quebec have announced plans for the rapid construction of 120 new affordable housing units in the Gaspé region.
The units are part of projects selected under Quebec's Programme d'habitation abordable Québec (PHAQ) and made possible through the $900 million Canada-Quebec Housing Accelerator Fund agreement.
According to a news release, developer Les Habitations de la Montagne will build an 84-unit project in Gaspé, serving families, singles, seniors and people with disabilities.
In Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, Villa Mgr Bourdages will spearhead the construction of a 36-unit project called for families, singles and independent seniors.
“Every citizen deserves a safe and affordable place to call home,” said Federal Housing Minister Sean Fraser. “This demonstrates our commitment to ensuring no-one is left behind.”
Quebec Housing Minister France-Élaine Duranceau commented: “Less than two months after signing a historic agreement with the Government of Canada, we are already set to announce the construction of additional housing units under the Programme d'habitation abordable Québec.”
The federal and provincial governments have each contributed $900 million to the Housing Accelerator Fund, which aims to accelerate the construction of 100,000 units nationally. Municipalities are also investment partners.
To keep the units affordable long-term, developers must commit to a maintenance period of up to 35 years during which rent increases are capped. Some tenants could also receive rent supplements, ensuring they pay no more than 25% of their income on housing.
The projects must begin construction within 12 months to remain eligible for funding under the accelerated timelines.
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“Driven by its economic dynamism, Gaspé is experiencing a major housing shortage, even though around 100 new residential units are built every year,” said Gaspé mayor Daniel Côté. “We have supported the Quartier du Havre since the very beginning of its project, notably by purchasing land, subsidizing preliminary studies and providing a long-term tax credit. I salute the efforts of local organizations and thank the governments for their contribution to this important project.”
“The town of Sainte-Anne-des-Monts is particularly proud and excited to welcome this government announcement. The introduction of 36 affordable housing units in our municipality will meet a significant need, facilitating adequate housing for our seniors as well as our families,” said Simon Deschênes, mayor of Sainte-Anne-des-Monts.
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