A three-phased multi-unit development project that officials say will add 150 rental units to Huntsville’s housing stock is now underway.
The project is led by the Muskoka Community Land Trust (MCLT), with the official ground-breaking taking place yesterday (Thursday, Sept. 24).
The Town of Huntsville says the event included remarks from partners and special guests, including Mayor Nancy Alcock.
“The Florence Street development, through the collaborative efforts of the MCLT, the Town of Huntsville, the District of Muskoka, (provincial and federal governments) and local partners, represents an important milestone in addressing a shortage of affordable housing in Huntsville,” said Mayor Alcock. “When these homes are completed, they will provide far more than shelter. They will be places where memories are made, neighbours become friends, and people experience the sense of belonging that comes with having a place to call home.”
Town officials say through its housing and needs assessment and housing action plan, several initiatives were identified and implemented to explore opportunities to remove barriers to the creation of more affordable housing units.
Huntsville CAO Denise Corry says access to housing is fundamental to the future of a strong and resilient community.
“At its heart, this project is about people — creating more opportunities for individuals and families to have a safe and secure place to call home. Reaching this milestone has taken vision, persistence and collaboration from the MCLT, the Town, other levels of Government and many partners who continued to find ways to move this project forward. Today, we are not simply breaking ground on buildings — we are creating homes, opportunity and a stronger tomorrow for people within our community,” said Corry.
According to the Town, 7.5 acres of land were donated towards the project, with permitting and development fees waved.
Phase one is anticipated to begin in October, and wrap in December 2027. Occupancy meantime is set to be available in January 2028.
