Creating Affordable Housing in Toronto Using Public-Private Partnerships

Abstract

This major paper explores observed trends in residential urban infill and intensification and the need for improved affordability in this type of development. Following detailed analysis of the affordability crisis within the City of Toronto, it is determined that strategies for improving the affordability of housing must be identified. Public-private partnerships are explored as a way to overcome the financial challenges that are preventing the construction of affordable rental housing. Through analysis of the City of Toronto's partnership program (Let's Build), this paper concludes that as long as senior government support for housing remains low, the use of intergovernmental and public-private partnerships will be the most realistic and effective way for municipalities to bridge the gap between local public resources and the costs of housing development.