PROPOSED HALIFAX & DARTMOUTH ZONING CHANGES   The following is some extremely exciting news for housing in Halifax & Dartmouth! The municipality has partnered with the federal government to push forward the new proposed changes to zoning under the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF). I will gloss over the proposed changes, and at the end of this article you can find a link to an interactive map that will show where exactly these proposed changes may take effect.   WHAT CHANGES HAVE BEEN PROPOSED? Halifax is undergoing a significant transformation with proposed zoning changes set to reshape both Halifax and Dartmouth, ushering in a new era of growth and development. With substantial funding from the federal government’s Housing Accelerator Fund, the city aims to tackle its housing shortage by creating 15,000 new units over the next three years.   WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR DARTMOUTH? In Dartmouth, one of the key changes involves replacing single-family residential areas with zones that allow for increased density. This means medium-sized buildings, such as duplexes, townhomes, and small apartments, could be built on a single lot, bridging the gap between traditional homes and high-rises. Additionally, corridors around existing or planned transit routes in Dartmouth are slated for enhancements, potentially accommodating buildings of up to seven to nine storeys. These changes not only promote sustainable urban development but also improve accessibility and connectivity for residents.   THESE ZONING CHANGES COULD RESHAPE THE ENTIRE CITY In Halifax, the proposal includes allowing buildings of up to 40 storeys in certain “Centre areas,” up from the current limit of 30 storeys. These areas, which encompass regions like the Dartmouth approach of the Macdonald Bridge and parts of Quinpool Road, are poised for significant development. Additionally, the plan calls for the replacement of single-family residential areas with higher-density zones, such as ER-2 and ER-3, allowing for buildings up to 11 to 12 metres high. The goal is to create more “missing middle housing,” which refers to medium-sized buildings that fill the gap between single-family homes and high-rises.   HOW DO LOCALS FEEL ABOUT THESE PROPOSALS? While these changes signify progress, they are not without challenges. Residents have expressed concerns about the pace of growth and its impact on local communities. However, there is optimism that these adjustments will ultimately position Halifax and Dartmouth for a brighter, more vibrant future.   HOUSING AFFORDABILITY IS A KEY FOCAL POINT Furthermore, the proposal underscores a commitment to affordability and inclusivity. Measures such as inclusionary zoning aim to ensure that a portion of new developments remains accessible to individuals and families of varying income levels, fostering a more equitable and inclusive city.   HOPEFULLY THESE PROPOSALS BRING POSITIVE CHANGE As Halifax and Dartmouth embark on this journey of transformation, the proposed zoning changes represent a significant step forward in building more livable, sustainable, and vibrant communities for all residents. With careful planning and thoughtful implementation, these initiatives hold the promise of unlocking the full potential of both cities and creating a better future for generations to come.   WHERE WILL THESE CHANGES OCCUR? Check out the interactive map at this link to see exactly where these exciting changes may be taking place.