Ensemble Montréal, led by Soraya Martinez Ferrada, mayoral candidate, has unveiled ambitious plans to revolutionize housing construction if they secure a victory in the upcoming election. During a press conference in Villeray-Saint-Michel-Parc-Extension, Martinez Ferrada emphasized the party’s commitment to fast-tracking housing projects by introducing a range of innovative measures.
One major proposal is to replace the existing By-law for a Mixed Metropolis with a system that offers financial incentives and forms partnerships with real estate entities and non-profit organizations. By leveraging incentive zoning and establishing a streamlined 90-day permit approval process supported by AI technology, Ensemble Montréal aims to accelerate the development of affordable housing units.
Martinez Ferrada stressed the importance of collaboration between the public sector, non-profits, and the private industry to address the pressing housing crisis. The party plans to utilize the city’s real estate assets to swiftly transform vacant properties into livable spaces through strategies like 70-year emphyteutic leases, property tax incentives for social housing projects, and the establishment of an Affordability Fund for non-market housing.
In addition to the housing initiatives, Martinez Ferrada announced significant investments in community infrastructure during her visits to Mercier–Hochelaga–Maisonneuve and Côte-des-Neiges–NDG. The plans include expanding community centers, renovating public facilities, and constructing new sports centers to enhance the quality of life for Montreal residents.
