Calgary has landed another major victory in its fight to tackle the housing crisis, with the federal government confirming a third instalment of $64.7 million from the Housing Accelerator Fund on Wednesday.
Mayor Jeromy Farkas announced the news at city hall, revealing a letter from federal Housing Minister Gregor Robertson that seals the deal—but comes with strings attached.
"This is a major win for Calgary and it reflects the strong partnership with the federal government," Farkas said during a news conference.
The timing marks a significant pivot. Just weeks earlier, Calgary council had voted to repeal a blanket rezoning bylaw that would have automatically permitted multi-unit housing across residential neighbourhoods. That decision had raised concerns the city might lose federal funding. Wednesday's announcement proves otherwise.
Here's what comes next: Calgary will receive its fourth and final payment in 2027—totalling a similar amount—provided the city maintains zoning regulations that allow for at least four housing units by right on a "majority" of residential parcels. The conditions give council flexibility while still pushing toward densification goals.
"Make no mistake, this is a strong vote of confidence in the city and in our city council," Farkas stated.
The mayor pointed to the city's Home is Here housing strategy, adopted in September 2023, as evidence that Calgary's approach is working. Since then, the city has delivered 61,000 new housing units—a pace that appears to be impressing Ottawa.
The federal Housing Accelerator Fund, part of the government's broader effort to address Canada's housing shortage, has become a key lever for municipalities trying to accelerate construction. For Calgary, a city wrestling with affordability challenges and rapid growth, the $65 million instalment represents tangible federal support for a critical local issue.
For homebuyers and renters tracking Calgary's housing market, CalgaryFinder.com offers detailed neighbourhood guides, property data, and current home prices across the city to help navigate the evolving real estate landscape.
Local residents interested in discussing housing policy, neighbourhood change, and city development can join the conversation on Calgary Forums, where Calgarians regularly debate municipal issues affecting their communities.
This article is based on reporting from the Calgary Herald.