Posted:
The Halifax Regional Municipality, through the Housing Accelerator Fund, is launching the Surplus Lands for Affordable Housing Pilot Program. This program aims to make surplus municipal land available to non-profit organizations for the creation of vibrant, affordable housing communities.
The goal of this program is to reduce the upfront costs of non-profit housing construction by eliminating land acquisition costs, and providing land for one dollar to eligible, non-profit organizations. The pilot includes property at four locations:
- 48 Pinecrest Drive, Dartmouth
- 15 Laurelcrest Drive, Eastern Passage
- 18 Scotia Drive, Bedford
- 6850 Bayers Road, Halifax
As part of the pilot project, the municipality will be considering applications that meet current residential land use rules for each property (e.g., permitted number of units, building size and height, setbacks from property lines and street frontage.) Successful projects will offer new rental units at below average market rents and be ready to start construction by October 2026.
By supporting affordable units in a short timeframe, this pilot program is an investment in the vibrancy and affordability of our community’s future.
Community engagement sessions:
Residents are invited to attend open house events around the municipality to learn about the new program and ask questions about how this initiative will support inclusive, connected communities across the municipality.
- Tuesday, July 15, 6 to 8 p.m. at Zatzman Sportsplex, Nantucket Room (110 Wyse Road, Dartmouth)
- Tuesday, July 22, 6 to 8 p.m. at Halifax Forum, Maritime Hall (2901 Windsor Street, Halifax)
- Monday, July 28, 6 to 8 p.m. at Eastern Passage Cow Bay Lions Club (65 Hornes Road, Eastern Passage)
- Tuesday, August 12, 5 to 7 p.m. at Bedford Public Library (15 Dartmouth Road, Bedford)
Whether you’re a neighbour, a community advocate or simply curious – this is your opportunity to learn more about one way the municipality is addressing housing needs.
Learn more about the program and open house events by visiting our website.