The City of Montreal aims to create about 15,000 downtown housing units over the next six years as part of a new $1.8-billion development plan.

The city announced its intention to establish two new residential mixed-use neighbourhoods in the Faubourgs and Bridge-Bonaventure areas. Many of the homes are expected to be rental and condominium units.

The plan also aims to consolidate the downtown’s position in the technology, healthcare and cultural and creative sectors.

The city pledged to prioritize investments in existing buildings to reverse high vacancy rates, particularly in the former Royal Victoria Hospital and Îlot Voyageur (Voyager Island) locations. The plan also aims to accelerate development in the city’s international district (Quartier International) near the Old Montreal area.

Mayor Valérie Plante said in a news release that the plan aims to propel the downtown’s social, economical and cultural appeal on a local, national and international scale.