Ontario Construction News staff writer
Construction is set to begin on a three-phase housing development in Huntsville that will add 150 rental units to the town’s housing supply.
The Muskoka Community Land Trust held a groundbreaking ceremony Thursday for the Florence Street development, with Town of Huntsville officials, government representatives and community partners attending.
Phase one is expected to begin construction in October and will include a multi-unit rental building. Construction is expected to be completed in December 2027, with residents expected to move in beginning in January 2028.
The Town of Huntsville contributed 7.5 acres of land to the project and waived permitting and development fees.
The project is being led by the Muskoka Community Land Trust in partnership with the Town of Huntsville, the District of Muskoka and provincial and federal partners.
Huntsville Mayor Nancy Alcock said the development will help address the community’s shortage of affordable housing.
“The Florence Street development … represents an important milestone in addressing a shortage of affordable housing in Huntsville,” Alcock said.
Town CAO Denise Corry said the project has required cooperation among the land trust, the town and other levels of government.
“Access to housing is fundamental to the future of a strong and resilient community,” Corry said.
The town has identified housing as a priority through its strategic plan, housing needs assessment and housing action plan. Those efforts have included looking for ways to increase the supply of affordable and attainable housing and reduce barriers to development.
The Florence Street project will be built in three phases and is expected to provide 150 rental homes when complete.
The development is part of broader efforts by the town and its partners to increase the supply of housing in Huntsville.
