2850 Apartments in Record Time in Quebec City: A Promising Opportunity for Public Housing in Quebec

In an ambitious move that could reshape the housing landscape in Quebec City, the municipality has announced a fast-tracked plan to build 2,850 new housing units under 18 multiresidential development projects. Leveraging a powerful legislative tool known as Loi 31, the city aims to address growing housing demands while opening the door to significant opportunities for public and affordable housing development across Quebec.

A Legislative Shortcut to Break Ground Faster

Mayor Bruno Marchand emphasized that this acceleration is not a “blank cheque” to developers. Rather, it is the product of intense negotiations with 18 different real estate partners. The use of Loi 31—a provincial law that allows municipalities to bypass certain regulatory hurdles such as referendums and traditional public consultations—has enabled the city to take a decisive step toward resolving the housing shortage.

“These are not normal times,” said Mayor Marchand. “We need to build, and we need to build fast.”

Under this framework, Quebec City can approve large-scale housing developments more quickly than ever, significantly reducing red tape that often slows progress. While some critics argue this limits civic input, the city insists it will still hold information sessions and consultations with affected residents before the end of June.

A Legislative Shortcut to Break Ground Faster

Mayor Bruno Marchand emphasized that this acceleration is not a “blank cheque” to developers. Rather, it is the product of intense negotiations with 18 different real estate partners. The use of Loi 31—a provincial law that allows municipalities to bypass certain regulatory hurdles such as referendums and traditional public consultations—has enabled the city to take a decisive step toward resolving the housing shortage.

“These are not normal times,” said Mayor Marchand. “We need to build, and we need to build fast.”

Under this framework, Quebec City can approve large-scale housing developments more quickly than ever, significantly reducing red tape that often slows progress. While some critics argue this limits civic input, the city insists it will still hold information sessions and consultations with affected residents before the end of June.

Public Housing in the Spotlight

One of the most promising aspects of this initiative is the potential for increased public and affordable housing units. For instance, the development on 60th Street in the Charlesbourg sector will feature 127 social housing units, a notable contribution toward meeting the needs of vulnerable populations.

As housing affordability becomes a national crisis, Quebec’s example offers a model for other Canadian provinces. The accelerated development of mixed-use residential buildings—some reaching up to 20 storeys—could offer long-term solutions to both market-rate and social housing shortages.

A Model for Canada?

By utilizing provincial powers strategically, Quebec City is showing that collaboration between government and private developers can yield tangible results in a short time. Other municipalities across Canada grappling with housing shortages may look to this model as inspiration for how to act decisively.

Despite pushback from opposition leaders and concerned citizens, Mayor Marchand noted that only 26% of current projects use special powers granted under Loi 31, suggesting the city is being measured and selective in its approach. The key challenge ahead lies in maintaining public trust while delivering homes where they’re most needed.

Conclusion: A Moment of Opportunity

The fast-tracking of 2,850 housing units in Quebec City is more than a local urban planning milestone—it’s a signal of what’s possible when legislative tools are used to respond to urgent social needs. For those advocating for public and affordable housing, this marks a pivotal moment. With thoughtful execution and ongoing citizen engagement, Quebec’s approach could pave the way for a new era of housing development in Canada.