Moncton Moves to Sell Land for Urgent Affordable Housing Need

UPDATE: Moncton officials have just announced plans to sell city-owned land to address the urgent need for affordable housing. The decision, made on November 17, 2023, includes a portion of the Moncton Coliseum complex property located off Killam Drive, marking a significant step in the city’s push for more accessible housing options.

City council has declared the roughly one-acre parcel surplus, paving the way for redevelopment. “This is the third property that’s been declared surplus for the purposes of affordable housing,” stated Josh Davies, the city’s manager of long-range policy planning. The anticipated development will feature a multi-storey, multi-unit building, potentially incorporating commercial spaces on the ground floor.

The city aims to initiate construction by 2027, contingent upon successful subdivision, rezoning, and the selection of a non-profit organization to acquire the land. “Often the biggest issue that our non-profit partners have is actually acquiring land to pursue funding,” Davies explained. This initiative aims to eliminate barriers and enhance housing supply in Moncton, which currently faces shortages in both large and small rental units.

As part of a broader strategy, Moncton is also dividing a large lot bordered by Cedar, Duffy, and Spruce streets into 10 building lots, with two designated for Habitat for Humanity New Brunswick. “We’re thrilled to be planning to build homes in Moncton once again,” said CEO Perry Kendall, highlighting the organization’s commitment to providing affordable housing options.

Habitat for Humanity plans to construct two semi-detached duplexes by early summer 2024, designed to allow for separate basement apartments. This innovative approach offers flexibility for larger families and potential income streams for homeowners.

The city’s land disposal policy defines affordable housing as “low-cost housing oriented toward low income or non-income generating residents.” Notably, surplus land will be sold for just $1, with the stipulation that it must be used for affordable housing.

The push to sell land for housing comes as Moncton city officials continue to explore redevelopment opportunities at the Coliseum site. In 2018, city council voted to maintain the Coliseum as a venue for large trade shows and exhibitions, while also planning for the redevelopment of portions of the site to manage operational costs.

Davies expressed optimism, stating, “I would anticipate that in the coming years, you’ll see a redevelopment of the Coliseum lands.” As these projects unfold, the city remains committed to addressing the pressing demand for affordable housing, a crucial step towards enhancing community well-being.

Residents and stakeholders will be closely monitoring the city’s actions, as the new housing developments could significantly impact Moncton’s housing landscape. The urgency surrounding this initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for sustainable and affordable housing solutions in the region.