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The federal government is committing nearly $600 million toward the construction of new military housing in Petawawa as part of a long-term effort to support members of the Canadian Armed Forces and their families.
Petawawa Mayor Gary Serviss says the funding is significant because it is a clear indication of the government’s commitment to Canadian military affairs, even in a challenging economic climate.
Plans call for 80 residential units to be built beginning in 2026 under the project’s first phase. A second phase, expected to begin in 2028, will add another 1,114 housing units. Serviss says the funding is important because ensuring adequate housing and resources for a growing military presence has long been a challenge across Canada and here in the Ottawa Valley.
Military officials say demand for housing in the region will remain strong despite the expansion, highlighting the continued need for private-sector residential development to accommodate future growth at Garrison Petawawa. Also of concern is whether Petawawa’s current infrastructure can support the rapid growth that would accompany the expansion, and whether resources such as water and hydro could be strained, at least in the short term. Despite these challenges, Serviss recognizes that the military footprint in Canada is continuing to grow.
Serviss says recent growth estimates suggest that as many as 200 new troops could be deployed to Petawawa this year, further increasing the demand for new housing. Along with new homes comes the need for businesses to expand, and Serviss says there are already clear signs of that growth taking place, not a moment too soon.
All in all, Serviss says the announcement is terrific news for members of the Canadian Armed Forces and their families. He says growth brings prosperity and helps ensure continued security for Canadians, including those here at home.
(Written By: Richard Evans)
