Call for Proposals to Build Affordable Housing

Hundreds of low-income Nova Scotians will have access to more affordable homes, thanks to the commitment to build new rental housing through the Canada-Nova Scotia Affordable Housing Agreement.

A provincewide request for proposals under the New Rental Housing Initiative will be issued Wednesday, Nov. 29, inviting not-for-profit organizations and private developers to submit proposals to build new affordable rental housing for individuals, families, seniors and persons with disabilities.

"We will continue to build on the success of the first phase of the affordable housing agreement, providing more opportunities for the creation of affordable homes for Nova Scotians," said Community Services Minister Judy Streatch. "I strongly encourage community groups, municipalities and the private sector to come forward with ideas and resources, so we can work together to address the housing needs of individuals, families and persons with disabilities."

The New Rental Housing Initiative encourages the construction of new, modest and affordable rental housing for low-income households in areas of need. Developers are provided with an up-front capital contribution to build new rental housing.

"The government of Canada is proud to be working closely with the provincial government and other groups to bring safe, affordable and accessible housing to those who need it most," said Peter MacKay, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, and Minister responsible for Nova Scotia, on behalf of Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development. "Working in partnership to develop affordable housing is key to developing strong communities here in Nova Scotia and throughout Canada."

The request for proposals will be available through the public tenders office at 6176 Young St., Halifax or by calling 902-424- 3333. The closing date is Thursday, Feb. 15, 2007.

As of March 31, $37.3 million has been committed by the federal and provincial governments and housing partners for the construction or renovation of more than 900 units. This included the creation of more than 550 new affordable rental units. A total of $56.2 million will be available under the Canada-Nova Scotia Affordable Housing Agreement by 2009.

Information on the Canada-Nova Scotia Affordable Housing agreement is available at local housing services offices or on the Department of Community Services website at www.gov.ns.ca/coms .