The federal government is pushing for provinces to allow the construction of fourplexes as a way to increase housing density and address the housing shortage. However, some provinces, like Ontario, are pushing back against this proposal, citing concerns about changing the character of neighborhoods. Housing policy expert Carolyn Whitzman argues that fourplexes are a form of “gentle density” that can help intensify housing without building tall condo towers. She emphasizes that most fourplex designs are only two stories high and can help address the housing needs of communities.
The federal government has been working directly with municipalities to encourage them to enact zoning changes to allow for the construction of fourplexes. One such municipality that saw heated debates over this issue was Mississauga, where Mayor Bonnie Crombie used her “strong mayor powers” to overrule council and allow for the construction of fourplexes in the city. Housing advocate Kelly Singh argues that building fourplexes is necessary to address the housing needs of the community and combat rising home prices that have forced many people out of their neighborhoods.
Whitzman and Singh both argue that allowing for the construction of fourplexes is not only necessary to address the housing shortage but also benefits current homeowners and older adults looking to downsize. They emphasize the need for provinces to act quickly to unlock federal infrastructure funding and address the housing shortage. Advocates like Yash Bhandari and Russil Wvong call for standardized designs and streamlined approval processes to speed up construction and address the housing shortage in a timely manner.
While some provinces, like British Columbia, have embraced the construction of fourplexes, others remain resistant to the idea. Whitzman argues that decision-making needs to be shifted from municipalities to provinces in order to speed up the approval process and address the housing shortage more effectively. Ultimately, advocates are calling for action from provincial and municipal governments to legalize the housing forms needed to address the housing crisis in Canada. They argue that by allowing for the construction of fourplexes, communities can provide much-needed housing options for residents while maintaining the character of their neighborhoods.
