Airdrie Housing Solutions Working Group Summary Report

City of Airdrie

Introduction

Airdrie's growing population faces increasing housing challenges, particularly for seniors, young families, newcomers, and essential workers. Rising costs and limited affordable options make housing accessibility a critical issue. To address this, the Airdrie Housing Solutions Working Group (AHSWG) was established to develop collaborative, Council-endorsed strategies that ensure affordability, availability, and inclusivity in the city’s housing landscape.

Key Findings

  • Housing Affordability Gaps: Over 2,000 households in Airdrie currently experience core housing need, with projections estimating a 44% increase by 2031.
  • Rental Market Pressures: The vacancy rate is critically low at 1.1%, well below the 3-5% benchmark for a balanced market, driving up rental costs.
  • Homeownership Barriers: Entry-level homeownership remains out of reach for many, as the required income is 16% higher than Airdrie’s median household income.

Strategic Recommendations

  1. Collaborative Engagement: Establish the Airdrie Housing Innovation Hub and host quarterly Housing Roundtables to promote ongoing discussions among stakeholders.
  2. Accelerate Affordable Housing Action Plan (2024-2030): Allocate 1% of the city’s annual tax base to an Affordable Housing Reserve Fund and implement a Rapid Response Process for approvals.
  3. Strengthen Industry & Non-Profit Partnerships: Develop a matchmaking program to connect developers with non-profits and create a Mission-Driven Land Partnership for utilizing underused land.
  4. Adopt Evidence-Based Policy Approaches: Implement flexible zoning regulations and launch a Community Champions Program to engage underrepresented groups in housing decisions.
  5. Advocate for Government Support: Form the Airdrie Housing Advocacy Alliance to lobby for funding and infrastructure support, and host an annual Regional Housing Solutions Summit.

Moving Forward

The Made-in-Airdrie approach fosters sustainable and inclusive housing solutions through collaboration between the city, industry leaders, and non-profits. By implementing these recommendations, Airdrie can proactively address housing challenges, secure necessary resources, and ensure a balanced, thriving housing market for all residents.

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