Province ponies up for more rental units throughout Conception Bay

By Mark Squibb

The new provincial government is committing more money to building affordable homes after the previous government fell short of the 900 new homes it promised in 2023.

Housing Minister Joedy Wall, Deputy Premier and Minister of Transportation Barry Petten, and Carbonear – Trinity – Bay de Verde MHA Riely Balsom visited the Conception Bay South Town Hall last week to announce $31 million in funding to support 33 new affordable rental housing projects, accounting for upwards of 344 new rental units.

The fundingincludes $17 million reallocated from projects previously approved in 2023 under the first round of the Affordable Rental Housing Program. Approximately 650 of the 900 homes promised under that first round of funding are anticipated to be completed at a cost of $65 million.

The funds will support building projects across the province, including five in Bay Roberts which will house 48 families, a 10-family building in Carbonear, a six-family building in Clarke’s Beach, a five-family building in Conception Bay South, a 12-family building in Harbour Grace, an 18-family building in Paradise, and a five-family building in Spaniard’s Bay.

“Our government continues to maintain a focus on thoughtful decision-making and smarter spending,” said Petten. “With a refocused Affordable Rental Housing Program, we are putting public money to work for the public, and getting homes built for families and seniors throughout this great province.”