The Governments of Canada and Quebec are accelerating affordable housing development in Quebec with a new initiative to build 1,001 social and affordable housing units. An initiative was announced on August 30, 2024, and will involve creating a fast-track system to expedite the construction of these units by experienced developers that have been recognized by the Société d’habitation du Québec (SHQ). The goal is to streamline the process, allowing qualified developers to start projects more quickly.
Under this new model, the SHQ will grant “Qualified Developer” status to developers and organizations, simplifying the approval process for financial assistance and enabling faster project execution. This approach will enhance the existing Programme d’Habitation Abordable Québec (PHAQ) by introducing a new layer of flexibility and efficiency in getting large-scale projects underway. SHQ has already identified capable developers to receive this status, aiming to kick-start the housing construction without delays.
The first organization to receive this “Qualified Developer” status is the Société de Développement Angus (SDA). SDA has been allocated nearly $193.5 million to construct 1,001 units, with 677 units in Montréal and 324 in Rimouski. This funding covers about half the total cost; affordability is guaranteed for at least 35 years. Financial support comes from both federal and provincial sources, including the $900 million in federal funds under the Canada-Quebec Agreement as part of the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) and an additional $900 million announced by Quebec in its 2023 economic update. The City of Montréal and the City of Rimouski will also contribute, while Desjardins Group will provide approximately $180 million in loans.
In Montréal, two significant projects will take place. The Technopôle Angus district will see the construction of a two-building complex featuring 352 one-, two-, and three-bedroom units. This development, located in the eco-friendly district of Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie, is set to begin by late 2024. Another 325 units will be developed in Ahuntsic, marking the start of the Écoquartier Louvain, a project that will eventually include various community amenities like schools, childcare centers, and urban agriculture facilities. This project is scheduled to start by summer 2025.
These housing projects are designed with sustainability in mind, aiming for LEED certification to ensure they meet high environmental standards. They are intended to provide affordable, sustainable living options that contribute to a high quality of life for residents. Rents will be set based on guidelines from the SHQ’s Programme d’habitation abordable Québec (PHAQ), with provisions for tenants to access rent supplements, ensuring housing costs do not exceed 25% of their income.
This initiative highlights a strategic move to address Quebec’s housing needs through effective collaboration and innovative models designed to deliver significant, long-term housing solutions.
