Ontario Moves to Fast-Track Housing, Transit Projects

The Ontario government has introduced the Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act to accelerate home and infrastructure construction in response to the province’s housing crisis. The bill would streamline development charges, cap required affordable housing units at five percent per project, restrict municipalities from requiring studies beyond those in their official plans, and standardize construction requirements to the provincial Building Code. It provides an additional $400 million for municipal infrastructure and expands the province’s authority to fast-track housing, road, and transit projects. The government claims strong support from municipal leaders, though some opposition members warn of government overreach and doubt the effectiveness of expanded zoning powers. Ontario aims to build 1.5 million new homes by 2031, but current construction rates are lagging. The legislation was shaped through consultations with developers and municipalities, reflecting lessons from past housing policies.