The federal government’s recent announcement of more than $197.2 million in contributions and low-cost loans through the Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) is set to make a significant impact in Vancouver. The funding will help build and repair 4,910 affordable homes in the city, with one of the highlighted projects being the Ashley Mar Housing Co-operative at 8460 Ash St., which received $22.8 million in funding.
The Ashley Mar Housing Co-operative project will see the replacement of 54 townhomes with a new building comprised of 125 homes ranging in size from one-to-five-bedrooms, located near the Marine Drive Canada Line station. This is just one example of how the federal funding from the AHF is being used to create new affordable housing options and repair existing homes.
In total, the federal funding is expected to create 562 new homes and repair 4,348 homes in Vancouver through the AHF. This program provides funding through low-interest and/or forgivable loans or contributions to support the construction of new affordable housing as well as the renovation and repair of existing affordable and community housing.
Additionally, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) is implementing the Frequent Builder framework, which streamlines the application process for the AHF and the Apartment Construction Loan Program. Housing providers with a track record of building multi-residential units can qualify for Frequent Builder status, which provides expedited access to funding. Different criteria apply to non-profit and for-profit organizations seeking this status.
Aside from the Ashley Mar Housing Co-operative, other notable projects receiving funding include a City of North Vancouver project with 89 units, the Brightside 8705 French Street redevelopment project in Vancouver funding 100 units, and the Heather Place B – Metro Van project funding 87 units. These projects showcase the diversity of affordable housing initiatives being supported by the AHF in Vancouver.
Overall, the federal government’s commitment to affordable housing in Vancouver through the AHF is a crucial step towards addressing the city’s housing needs and ensuring that all residents have access to safe and affordable housing options.
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