The Nova Scotia government announced a historic investment in public housing Thursday, committing $136.4 million as part of an unprecedented $2.4-billion capital investment plan.

The government intends to build 242 new housing units in communities where affordable-housing demand is high.

“Moving our province forward requires a new mindset,” said Finance and Treasury Board Minister John Lohr. “That vision is captured this year in the largest-ever capital plan that will position us for future growth.

“These investments will support Nova Scotians and unlock opportunities to grow the economy.”

The overall funding covers various sectors, including healthcare, education, and transportation, alongside the unprecedented commitment to public housing.

“Building more public housing is a key part of addressing the housing needs of our communities,” said Growth and Development Minister Colton LeBlanc. “Our government is investing and working quickly to get more Nova Scotians into homes faster. With today’s announcement, hundreds more Nova Scotians will have access to the housing they need to thrive.”

These new units are in addition to the 273 units—including 51 modular homes—announced over the past 18 months. In total, 515 new public housing units have been planned, completed, or are under construction, marking the most significant investment in public housing in 30 years.

All of the funding is contingent on the 2025-26 budget passing in the legislature, with specific locations for the new public-housing units expected to be announced in the coming months.

Previously announced public-housing projects remain on track, said the government. In September 2023, the province committed to building 222 new units across multiple communities, with construction timelines extending into 2028. Additionally, the 51 modular homes are being distributed across various regions, with some units already completed and others set to be ready in the coming months.

Tenants living in public housing in Nova Scotia do not pay more than 30% of their income on rent. That threshold ensures affordability for low-income residents, according to the province.

Pictured: A single-family modular home in Port Hawkesbury, N.S.

Photo: Nova Scotia Provincial Housing Agency