(Huntsville, ON) – Town of Huntsville officials and staff joined the Muskoka Community Land Trust (MCLT) and other government and community partners yesterday, for the official groundbreaking of a three-phased multi-unit development project that will add 150 rental units to Huntsville’s housing stock when complete.  

Led by the MCLT, the event included remarks from a range of partners and special guests, including Huntsville Mayor Nancy Alcock, followed by an official groundbreaking ceremony where representatives took part in the symbolic first shovel turn.   

“The Florence Street development, through the collaborative efforts of the MCLT, the Town of Huntsville, the District of Muskoka, and Provincial, Federal and local partners, represents an important milestone in addressing a shortage of affordable housing in Huntsville,” said Mayor Alcock. “When these homes are completed, they will provide far more than shelter. They will be places where memories are made, neighbours become friends, and people experience the sense of belonging that comes with having a place to call home.”  

As part of its Strategic Plan, the Town recognizes the need to identify solutions to the housing needs of the community and work with community partners to create attainable housing options. Through its housing needs assessment and housing action plan, several initiatives were identified and implemented to proactively explore opportunities and remove barriers to the creation of more affordable housing units.  

“Access to housing is fundamental to the future of a strong and resilient community,” said Denise Corry, CAO, Town of Huntsville. “At its heart, this project is about people — creating more opportunities for individuals and families to have a safe and secure place to call home. Reaching this milestone has taken vision, persistence and collaboration from the MCLT, the Town, other levels of Government and many partners who continued to find ways to move this project forward. Today, we are not simply breaking ground on buildings — we are creating homes, opportunity and a stronger tomorrow for people within our community.”  

The Town of Huntsville has and will continue to work with partners to find solutions for housing needs in our community. The Town donated 7.5 acres of land towards this project and waived permitting and development fees. Phase one construction of the Florence Street development is anticipated to begin in October and is expected to conclude in December 2027, with occupancy available for January 2028.