Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Government of Canada and the City of North Bay have reached an agreement to accelerate construction of 337 homes over the next three years, setting the stage for 4,188 homes to be built over the next decade. The deal, part of the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF), includes a federal investment of over $10.6 million aimed at breaking down barriers and speeding up housing development.
The HAF initiative, introduced in 2023, requires local governments to submit detailed action plans that align with ambitious housing targets to unlock funding.
North Bay’s action plan includes seven initiatives designed to address local housing challenges.
Zoning reforms will allow up to four housing units by right in urban areas, paired with reduced parking requirements.
Fee reductions through waivers and grants will encourage the development of affordable units, while city-owned land will be made available for affordable housing projects.
Approval timelines will be reduced through streamlined processes, e-permitting technology, and increased staffing to support service delivery.
The Housing Accelerator Fund is a $4.4 billion program running until 2027-28.
As of September 2024, the fund has supported 156,000 new housing units and repaired over 297,000 units across Canada.
The City of North Bay’s efforts will focus on infill housing, streamlined processes, and incentives for affordable development.
