More than 200 new public housing units will be built for Nova Scotians in need.

Housing Minister John Lohr and Halifax MP Andy Fillmore announced $83 million to create 222 new public housing units, including 80 that will be fully accessible.

The province will put up $58.8 million while the feds will contribute $24.4 million to help get them built.

The new housing will serve 522 families, individuals and low-income seniors across our province.

“We know many Nova Scotians are struggling to find safe and affordable housing. Increasing the supply of all types of housing is an important part of the solution,” said Lohr. “Our government is investing, innovating and working to increase supply so more Nova Scotians can have a safe place to call home. With today’s announcement, hundreds more Nova Scotians will be given that opportunity.”

The units will be built on provincially owned land close to existing public housing developments in:
— Bridgewater
— Kentville
— Truro
— Cape Breton (multiple locations)
— Halifax Regional Municipality (multiple locations).

“These 222 new public housing units will serve both the people of Halifax and Nova Scotians provincewide. Access to affordable housing is so important, and this partnership brings us closer to that goal. I am pleased to see that together with the Province, we’re making progress.” said Fillmore.

The province also announced plans for pilot programs aimed at creating more options and opportunities to add housing to existing properties, create mixed-income communities, and transfer some existing public housing units to community-based housing organizations and/or resident ownership.