Affordable Housing Project in New Minas Nears Completion
The Valley Roots Housing Association's affordable housing development on Highbury Road in New Minas (Province of Nova Scotia)
A new affordable housing development in New Minas is almost complete, creating more options for seniors, families and people from diverse communities in the Annapolis Valley.
Housing Minister John White joined representatives of community partner Valley Roots Housing Association, the non-profit housing provider, today, July 17, to tour one of the 32 new townhouse units.
“It is exciting to see this project so close to completion and to know that people and families will soon be starting a new chapter of their lives in safe, affordable homes they can count on,” said Minister White. “This development is a strong example of the progress we are making to bring more affordable housing to communities across Nova Scotia, faster.”
The project includes studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom townhouses, including three barrier-free units. Monthly rents range from $575 to $600 for studios to $750 to $1,100 for three-bedroom units. On average, they are 79 per cent of average market rent as determined by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp.
The Province contributed $5.28 million to the project through the Affordable Housing Development Program and provided land valued at $350,000 through the Land for Housing program.
Quotes:
“Projects like these make their communities better, and better communities benefit us all. Our government is proud to have been a part of making this happen. This is more evidence of what we can do, as a country, when we work together.”
— Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for Kings-Hants, on behalf of Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
“This project represents what can happen when governments, municipalities and community organizations work together around a shared purpose. Every one of these homes will provide more than an affordable place to live – they will provide stability, dignity and the opportunity for individuals and families to build their future. Valley Roots Housing Association is proud to help create housing that is affordable, environmentally sustainable and designed to serve our community for generations to come.”
— Peter Gillis, President, Valley Roots Housing Association
“It’s an exciting day in Kings County when we can announce housing units that are under construction will soon become new places to call home. The Municipality of the County of Kings commends all involved with the Valley Roots Housing Association for their commitment to developing affordable and sustainable housing options in the Annapolis Valley.”
— Dave Corkum, Mayor, Municipality of the County of Kings
Quick Facts:
- Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. supports affordable housing through programs under the National Housing Strategy and contributed about $7.1 million toward this project through the Co-operative Housing Development Program
- the affordability period for this project is in perpetuity, and provincial funding will be forgiven over 30 years
- the Affordable Housing Development Program supports private developers and community housing developers to create affordable rental housing for low- to moderate-income households
Additional Resources:
The Our Homes, Action for Housing plan: https://novascotia.ca/action-for-housing/
Affordable Housing Development Program: https://www.novascotia.ca/programs-and-services/affordable-housing-development-program