Ottawa’s push to accelerate housing construction continues with a major redevelopment at 384 Arlington Avenue, one of the largest projects approved under the federal Build Canada Homes initiative. Set to deliver 296 new residential units, the project represents a significant step toward increasing housing supply in the city’s core—while reinforcing the importance of density and urban intensification.
As part of a broader plan to build over 1,100 rental homes across Ottawa, this development combines private and non-profit partnerships to deliver housing quickly, efficiently, and at scale.
A Core Urban Infill Opportunity
Located in a well-established neighbourhood, the 384 Arlington Avenue project is designed to maximize land use within Ottawa’s existing urban footprint:
- 296 residential units, making it one of the largest projects in the current pipeline
- A mixed development model, combining private and non-profit housing delivery
- Construction expected to begin in Fall 2026, with projects moving through final approvals
By focusing on infill development rather than outward expansion, this project supports a more compact, walkable city, reducing pressure on suburban sprawl and infrastructure.
Why Density Matters
The Arlington Avenue development highlights a key truth in today’s housing crisis: cities must build up, not just out.
- Efficient land use: Maximizing housing within existing neighbourhoods
- Infrastructure savings: Leveraging existing roads, transit, and services
- Stronger communities: Supporting local businesses and amenities through increased population density
With nearly 300 new homes in a single project, Arlington Avenue demonstrates how urban intensification can deliver meaningful impact in a short timeframe.
Part of a Bigger Housing Strategy
The project is part of a federal-municipal partnership between the Government of Canada and the City of Ottawa to deliver up to 3,000 mixed-income homes. Key elements of this strategy include:
- Reduced development costs, including lower municipal charges
- Public land utilization to accelerate delivery
- Modern construction methods to shorten build timelines
- A focus on rental housing, with affordability as a priority
Across the eight approved projects, more than 90% of units are designated as rental housing, addressing one of the most pressing gaps in Canada’s housing market.
Building Momentum Across Ottawa
While 384 Arlington Avenue is one of the largest projects in the program, it’s part of a coordinated effort to deliver housing site by site, neighbourhood by neighbourhood.
Each project contributes to a growing pipeline that aims to move quickly from approval to construction—something many cities across Ontario are still struggling to achieve.
The Bigger Picture
Ottawa’s approach shows that solving the housing crisis isn’t about one mega-project—it’s about consistent, scalable delivery across multiple sites.
By focusing on urban density, strong partnerships, and fast-tracked approvals, the city is setting a pace that other municipalities should be watching closely.
Keys to the City is GTA Weekly’s editorial series spotlighting affordable housing projects and the solutions shaping Canada’s housing future.
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