February 09, 2007

FORT MCMURRAY – Today in Calgary, Human Resources and Social Development Minister Monte Solberg, along with Alberta Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Ray Danyluk, announced a joint federal – provincial venture that would see Fort McMurray get funding assistance for 36 low to moderate income housing units.

$1.8 million, being allocated through Phase II of the Canada – Alberta Affordable Housing Program Agreement, will be used towards the development of the Creek Side project. The funding, which will be managed through the Wood Buffalo Housing and Development Corporation, is a welcome step in the fight against extraordinary housing costs.

“Today’s funding announcement is proof that Fort McMurray’s housing crisis is finally being acknowledged. That people now understand, despite the fodder, that the average working person in this city cannot afford $2000 a month for rent, $300,000 for a mobile home, or almost $500,000 for a single family home,” says Jean. “Housing prices in this city are beyond unreasonable, and I applaud the actions of the Ministers’ today in dealing with this predicament.”

In total, Phase II of the Canada – Alberta Affordable Housing Program Agreement will dole out $30 million towards affordable housing projects in Calgary, Edmonton, Drumheller and Fort McMurray, creating 278 new housing units.

For more information, please contact: Brian Jean (613) 992-1154 or (780) 743-2201