Ontario Construction News staff writer
The County of Huron is using multiple funding streams to build affordable housing.
The Canada-Ontario Community Housing Initiative recently announced 6.4 million toward construction of a project to be located in Exeter – one of three currently underway in Huron County. All three new housing developments are designed to increase affordable housing in Huron as well as prevent and address homelessness locally.
“The County of Huron is tremendously grateful for this financial contribution made by the province.” Said Huron County Warden Glen McNeil “The continued commitment of the province to support housing developments like this one in Exeter, is impactful. We greatly appreciate this partnership and look forward to continued collaborations in the future.”
Developments include:
Bennett Street, Goderich: $2 million
Two new triplexes are nearing completion on Bennett Street East in Goderich. These six units (two 2-bedroom and four 1-bedroom) will provide a mix of housing appropriate for singles, couples, and families.
Both are located on an existing County housing site and were funded by the Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative, Social Services Relief Fund, and the County of Huron.
Sanders Street, Exeter: $7.5 million
A 20-unit apartment building is in the final stages of planning for Sanders Street in Exeter. Construction on this project is anticipated to begin summer 2023. These units will provide an appropriate mix of affordable homes for singles and couples.
Building will be constructed on an existing County housing site utilizing funds from the Canada-Ontario Community Housing Initiative. Additional funding continues to be sourced to support this project.
Gibbons Street, Goderich: $20.4 million
39-unit apartment building is in the early stages of planning for Gibbons Street in Goderich. Construction on this project is anticipated to begin in 2024.
Construction is on a site that was sold to the County of Huron from the Town of Goderich for $1. Funding continues to be sourced to support this project.
All new County of Huron housing projects are designed to prioritize efficiency, resiliency, and sustainability to reduce energy use, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and build facilities that are future-ready for the impacts of climate change.
Also, construction materials selected for all three housing developments are designed to be durable and practical while ensuring the properties can be appropriately maintained with minimal replacement requirements in the future.