New affordable housing units in Moncton

Five new affordable housing units have been opened in Moncton’s Old North End. Constructed by First Choice Apartments Incorporated, the building is located at 65 Purdy Avenue and contains nine units in total: four privately-owned units, three units designated for low-income families, and two units specially-equipped for people with disabilities.

While the Affordable Housing Agreement has not been able to help everyone, these newly opened units on Purdy Avenue are a step in the right direction towards helping make Moncton a great place to live.

Government Funding

Both federal and provincial governments have contributed to this project. Overall, the federal government put $47 million into the Affordable Housing 2011-2014 Agreement, and these funds are to be used for new construction and rent subsidies.

Funding for the Moncton project consists of $200,000 from the federal government, with an additional $420,000 in rent subsidies from the New Brunswick provincial government.

Improving the Neighbourhood

Rent and cost of living often present a challenge to those on fixed or lower incomes. This program helps ease the financial burden for local residents in need.

The Government of Canada encourages the use of apprentice labour in these projects, which helps apprentices gain valuable experience and assists them further on their path to certification.

Central Location

Purdy Avenue is situated close to many amenities, such as schools, hospitals, and the shopping districts along Mountain Road and Killam Drive.

For those without their own vehicle, Moncton’s Codiac Transit has bus routes nearby that also connect to other bus routes running throughout the city. Taxicabs are available, as well as transportation services specially-equipped to assist people with disabilities.

Ongoing Program

A number of affordable housing units have opened in Moncton over the past few years: 50 units in January 2012, 56 units in August 2012, 28 units in April 2013, four units in July 2013, and 30 units in May 2014.

These housing units are available to low-income seniors, people with disabilities, and non-elderly singles. However, in Moncton, the demand exceeds the supply. According to the Greater Moncton Homelessness Steering Committee, the number of names on the waiting list for subsidized housing has increased by 28 per cent over the number from 2013.

Photos by: Lynn McEachern