A Case Study of the Federal Lands Initiative

The Federal Lands Initiative was created as a one time $200-million fund which supports the transfer of surplus federal lands and buildings to eligible proponents. The program makes these lands available at significantly discounted or no cost, in order for them to be developed or renovated for use as affordable housing. Being that these sites were historically used for various operations within the federal government, local municipalities typically have the areas zoned for institutional land uses and as such, rezoning the property is a common requirement. This can present significant challenges depending on the local context and politics as well as negative stereotypes surrounding affordable housing. Potential proponents of the program are also charged with producing premium housing outcomes in energy efficiency and accessibility while maintaining below market rates amidst economic pressures. This research uses the Federal Lands Initiative as an exploratory case study to investigate the interplay between municipal, provincial and federal governance structures. It examines the frameworks that affect the success of the program and it explores the political and structural pressures surrounding the development of affordable housing in Canada.

Author dc:creator

• Young-Sponga, Justin

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Newman, Lenore

• School of environment and sustainability

Language dc:language.iso

en_US

Identifier URI

https://doi.org/10.25316/ir-19884

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:null:10613/28279