Sensitive infill development creates 55 homes

February, 2025
By: Connor Jay, Communications Coordinator

In February 2025, CityHousing Hamilton’s (CHH) newest development added 55 units of affordable, near net-zero community-focused housing at 106 Bay Street North.

The building exemplifies inclusive, sustainable, and affordable urban living, providing a forward-thinking housing strategy that is transit-oriented and community-focused. The development is part of CHH’s plan to ambitiously expand Hamilton’s affordable housing supply. 

Transit-Oriented:

106 Bay Street North hosts innovative partnerships to provide affordable alternative transportation options through Communauto’s car-share program, with two car-share cars available directly on site. All households will receive memberships to Hamilton Bike Share which are also available nearby. The building is close to HSR and GO bus stops and is also within walking distance of a future LRT station.

 

L to R are President of the Board and Ward 3 Councillor Nrinder Nann, tenant Phillip Monson, Mayor Andrea Horwath, and CEO Adam Sweedland.
Image credit: City of Hamilton

 

Community and Family-Focused:

This multi-generational building features 35 one-bedroom units, and 20 three-bedroom units uniquely designed for families. The project replaces 45 (of 91) deeply affordable rent geared-to-income (RGI) units from the Jamesville site and adds 10 new moderately affordable half-market units to Hamilton's housing supply. As is the standard for all new CityHousing Hamilton buildings, 20 per cent of units are barrier-free to meet or exceed Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) standards.

Multi-phase Development:

The building does not have tenant parking, which allows for a second phase of development on the site as funding allows, providing a sustainable and scalable solution to deliver more much-needed affordable housing in the city.

Sustainability Focus:

The building is Passive House certified to deliver near-net zero energy performance, reinforcing CityHousing Hamilton’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

This development represents a capital investment of more than $28 million from the federal government and the City of Hamilton. A breakdown of funding for the $28 million housing project includes:

• $12.4 million from the federal government through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Co-Investment Fund and MLI Select Loan that was announced in 2023.

• $10.7 million from the City of Hamilton through the Poverty Reduction Fund and Affordable Housing Fund.

This project represents a prime example of a sensitive infill development replacing an existing under-utilized surface parking lot to increase Hamilton’s affordable housing supply.