Ontario Construction News staff writer
CityHousing Hamilton (CHH) has opened a new 55-unit development at 106 Bay Street North, expanding the supply of accessible and community-focused housing.
The project, which replaces 45 deeply affordable rent-geared-to-income (RGI) units from the Jamesville site and adds 10 new moderately affordable units, is designed to support vulnerable populations, particularly women and children fleeing violence or facing homelessness. In 2018, CityHousing Hamilton acquired a parking lot from the city for the development.
“We are doing everything we can and leveraging every available resource to increase the affordable housing supply in Hamilton,” said Mayor Andrea Horwath. “This brand-new building provides 55 homes primarily for women and their children in need of stable housing.”
Over the past six months, CityHousing Hamilton has added 79 -new spaces, and another 82 projected to open by summer. This progress is possible by prioritizing innovative solutions, such as repurposing city-owned properties.”
The building is Passive House certified, delivering near-net zero energy performance and aligning with Hamilton’s climate goals. A second phase of development is planned for the site as funding becomes available, ensuring continued efforts to expand affordable housing options.
“This building showcases a scalable, sustainable approach to housing,” said Adam Sweedland, CEO of CityHousing Hamilton. “Its design balances energy efficiency with livability, demonstrating how thoughtful planning can create long-term housing solutions.”
Funding for the $28 million project came from:
- $12.4 million from the federal government via Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Co-Investment Fund and MLI Select Loan.
- $10.7 million from the City of Hamilton’s Poverty Reduction Fund and Affordable Housing Fund.
- $1.6 million from the City’s Affordable Housing Development Project Stream.
“The Housing Secretariat is committed to supporting initiatives like this and ensuring Hamiltonians have access to safe, affordable housing,” said Justin Lewis, director of the Housing Secretariat.
