Calgary to Receive $65 Million Federal Housing Grant Following Council Decision
In a significant development for urban housing initiatives, Calgary is set to receive the third installment of its Housing Accelerator Fund grant, totaling $64.7 million, despite recent council actions to repeal blanket rezoning policies. Mayor Jeromy Farkas announced the funding confirmation on Wednesday, highlighting it as a strong vote of confidence in the city's approach from the federal government.
Federal Conditions Attached to Future Payments
The city will receive its fourth and final payment in 2027, amounting to a similar sum, provided Calgary maintains specific zoning regulations. These regulations must allow for at least four housing units by right on a majority of residential parcels, ensuring continued progress toward housing density goals.
This funding validation underscores that Calgary's housing strategy is effective, according to Mayor Farkas. Since adopting the Home is Here housing strategy in September 2023, the city has delivered 61,000 new housing units, with the accelerator fund directly supporting nearly 15,000 of those, including over 1,500 below-market units.
Ending Months of Speculation Over Funding
The announcement concludes months of uncertainty, during which both city officials and the federal housing agency warned that Calgary could forfeit up to $130 million in remaining installments if council followed through on campaign promises to repeal blanket rezoning. The previous council had approved the policy in May 2024 to increase housing density in established communities, but the current council reversed this decision on April 8 after extensive public hearings.
Calgarians were clear that a blanket approach to rezoning did not fit our city, so we hit reset, Farkas stated. The federal government recognized that fact and acknowledges that Calgary can adopt a more targeted, made-in-Calgary approach while still meeting and exceeding housing goals.
Requirements for Final Installment in 2027
Federal Housing Minister Gregor Robertson's letter emphasized that to secure the final $64 million installment next year, Calgary must have a replacement framework for blanket rezoning in effect or significantly developed before the Housing Accelerator Fund agreement expires on October 27. This condition ensures ongoing alignment with federal housing objectives while allowing local flexibility.
Mayor Farkas expressed optimism about the path forward, noting that the city is leading the country in building diverse housing types for all stages of life. The recent federal endorsement provides clarity and support for continued leadership in addressing housing needs through innovative and community-tailored solutions.
