Montreal is launching a pilot project to address its growing homelessness crisis through modular housing units. Robert Beaudry, the city’s executive committee member for housing, explained that these modular units will serve as temporary accommodations, bridging the gap between emergency shelters and permanent social housing. Expected to house people for a couple of years while they wait for permanent placements, the units will be complemented by on-site health and social services provided in partnership with Quebec’s government and local organizations.
The city is currently seeking land for the project, with plans to build 60 modular units across two boroughs by March 2025. The units will offer various room configurations, including single rooms, couple accommodations, and accessible options, along with common areas and sanitary facilities. Public consultations will be held to ensure smooth integration into the community.
Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante emphasized that this initiative will help mitigate the homelessness crisis but will not replace the urgent need for increased social housing construction. Sam Watts of Welcome Hall Mission welcomed the project but urged for more details and additional measures to address the extensive demand. If successful, the project may expand beyond the initial 60 units.
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