Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Government of Quebec and the Government of Canada have announced the construction of 60 social and affordable housing units in Sept-Îles. This initiative, part of the Société d’habitation du Québec’s (SHQ) Programme d’habitation afordable Québec (PHAQ), will be supported by the Société du Plan Nord (SPN).
The project will build 60 housing units for families, single individuals, people with physical disabilities, and those with mental health issues. Funding comes from the Canada–Quebec Agreement under the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF), with both governments contributing $900 million each. The City of Sept-Îles will also provide financial support, covering at least 40% of the SHQ’s base contribution.
To ensure a quick project launch, developers must sign an agreement with a contractor within 12 months of being selected to remain eligible for government funding.
“Only a few months after signing a historic agreement with the Government of Canada, we’re already announcing the construction of additional housing under the Programme d’habitation abordable Québec. This good news for the Côte-Nord region shows our firm commitment to building more affordable housing quickly across Quebec. Every Quebecer deserves a home that meets their needs,” said France-Élaine Duranceau, Quebec Minister Responsible for Housing.
Some households will benefit from the SHQ’s Rent Supplement Program, ensuring they spend no more than 25% of their income on housing. The Programme d’habitation abordable Québec (PHAQ) encourages rapid residential construction, with projects starting within 12 months of selection.
The Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF), launched in March 2023, aims to accelerate the construction of 100,000 housing units across Canada, with $900 million allocated for Quebec. The Quebec government’s additional $900 million investment will further boost housing construction, supported by initiatives to reduce development barriers and streamline approval processes. The government is committed to accelerating residential construction through new policies and legislative amendments aimed at improving urban densification and reducing delays.