Building Affordable Housing Worth More Than A Billion

The provincial government will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years to expand its affordable housing portfolio by 4,000 units.

It remains to be seen just how much of a dent the new builds will put in the province’s affordable housing wait list.

More than 15,000 Alberta families are still waiting for a home, and changes to who qualifies for affordable housing Jan. 1, 2018, will likely see that list grow.

The rejig is part of the province’s first affordable housing strategy, announced Monday by Seniors and Housing Minister Lori Sigurdson.

Minister of Seniors and Housing Lori Sigurdson announces a new $1.2 billion provincial affordable housing strategy during a press conference at the Federal Building, 9820 107 St., in Edmonton Monday June 26, 2017. David Bloom / Postmedia

The province will also pilot mixed income buildings, so tenants are able to stay in their homes as they get higher paying jobs, and seniors can age in their communities. Alberta to spend $1.2 billion on affordable housing | Edmonton Journal