by Timothy Edward, Local Journalism Initiative reporter
The City of Montreal has inaugurated 893 social and affordable off-market housing units, which are either being built or have officially opened, in collaboration with the community-oriented social enterprise Bâtir son quartier. Of these units, made possible by a joint investment of nearly $340-million by all three levels of government, roughly 600 are currently completed and habitable.
In a press conference this afternoon, Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante presented this sum of nine separate projects as part of the city’s plan to combat the housing crisis with not-for-profit housing solutions.
“The City of Montreal is committed to doing everything in its power to create new off-market housing units. The new Loger + strategy proves it. With measures like priority land transfer for off-market housing, the adoption of a 120-day administrative standard for issuing permits for as-of-right projects, and the three-year, $3-million fund I set up to cover project startup costs, Montreal is taking action to make things happen.”
Over 50% of the 893 units inaugurated today are eligible for the Société d’habitation du Québec’s Quebec Rent Supplement Program (SHQ), allowing their inhabitants to pay 25% of their income towards housing.
Plante spoke about the link between the housing crisis and homelessness, and the importance of addressing the needs of both homeless and those who are vulnerable to homelessness.
“Thanks to these projects, more than 1,000 people will be sheltered from the streets and will be able to live in dignified and safe conditions.”