- Published: November 15, 2023
As Toronto grapples with an ongoing housing crisis, a massive investment plan from the federal government promises a much-needed increase in the city’s stock of rental housing. Announced recently, the government will provide $1.2 billion in fully repayable low-interest loans, aimed at stimulating the rental house construction notably in Toronto.
This groundbreaking move will facilitate the construction of over 2,600 rental homes across seven unique projects, courtesy of the federal Rental Construction Financing Initiative. Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland emphasized that these future homes will be strategically located near transit, work, and school for the utmost convenience of Toronto’s thriving populace – from fledgling professionals to people raising families.
However, this effort does not stop at the city’s boundary. The federal government’s scheme aims to create a whopping 71,000 new rental housing units across Canada by 2027-28, refreshing the country’s property landscape.
Described as an investment into the heart of Toronto and its residents, the announcement came as a sigh of relief for many. Amid skyrocketing rents, the city council recently passed a robust housing plan aiming to build 65,000 rent-controlled homes by 2030, a feat only achievable with substantial federal and provincial investment.
Insights into seven major projects sparked by this initiative reveal a promising future for Toronto’s renters. For instance, 855 rental houses will be built at 373 Front Street East with a funding of $444 million, while 325 Moriyama Drive will gain 390 rental homes through a $130 million investment.
Despite being heavily reliant on federal support to the tune of nearly $800 million a year, Toronto city officials are confident that this substantial investment will not only resolve the city’s housing challenges but also set a benchmark for other mega-cities dealing with similar issues.
Striking the right balance between providing affordable housing and meeting municipal budgets isn’t easy. However, this critical step from the federal government offers a unique solution, making affordable housing for all a tangible reality.
Stay tuned for the city’s reactions to the federal government’s fall economic statement and the future for housing in Toronto. After all, the dream of a comfortable, affordable home in the vibrant city of Toronto might now be within everyone’s reach.