MARATHON — Just in time to see a major economic boom in the Town of Marathon, the federal government has pledged $1.9 million through the Housing Accelerator Fund to fast-track the building of 60 new homes over the next three years.
The announcement was held on Feb. 20 at 30 Chisholm Trail where the town is preparing the land for a 50-unit housing development.
"By allowing more medium-density, duplex and multi-family housing such as townhouses and multiplexes and affordable housing, streamlining approval processes, and incorporating climate adaptability into its planning, the town will ensure that Marathon has more of the kind of homes we need to tackle the housing crisis," said Sean Fraser, minister of housing, infrastructure and communities.
"We are very pleased to be receiving this funding under the housing accelerator fund. New residential development is a priority in our strategic plan and a key for our community's growth. This assistance from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) will ensure that we can move forward expeditiously with our development plans,” said Mayor Rick Dumas.
Marathon, located on the north shore of Lake Superior, is the host community of Generation Mining's proposed copper and palladium project, and Great Lakes commercial port. The developments are expected to create hundreds of jobs and attract newcomers to town.
According to Marathon's action plan, the town aims to build a variety of homes of various sizes to ensure affordability. These homes include construction of tiny homes, medium-density homes, duplexes, townhouses and multiplexes.
"This is a huge day for the Marathon Municipal Non-Profit Housing Corporation, the Town of Marathon and its residents. We are so fortunate to be adding much-needed first-class and affordable housing options to our community," said Julie Michano, property manager of Marathon Municipal Non-Profit Housing Corporation.
"We would like to specifically recognize the CMHC, the federal Government of Canada, the Town of Marathon, and the CGV Group (building contractor) for their hard work and generous support. Without these organizations, this project would not have been possible."
The town's action plan also includes a streamlined process to automate non-complex tasks and reduce wait times on building projects.
Marathon will also incorporate a climate adaptability plan to provide incentives for low-carbon and climate-resilient residential units.
"Congratulations to the Town of Marathon on this significant step forward," said Patty Hajdu, member of parliament for Thunder Bay-Superior North.
"This federal investment will support the fulfillment of critical housing needs in this region. The funding of almost $1.9 million in Marathon will accelerate the development of safe and affordable housing to meet the needs of this rapidly growing community."
— SNNewswatch
