The federal and Ontario governments are committing up to $94.8 million for infrastructure in Bradford West Gwillimbury as the municipality moves to sharply reduce residential development charges, a measure officials say could help unlock more than 29,000 new homes and lower construction costs for buyers.
Announced Aug. 28, the funding will flow through the Development Charge Reduction Program (DCRP) and is tied to Bradford West Gwillimbury reducing development charges by as much as 76 per cent, depending on the type of housing and location. The reductions would remain in place from March 30, 2026, through March 31, 2029.
Development Charge Cuts Could Save Up to $36,500 Per Home
The governments estimate the three-year reduction in development charges could cut the cost of constructing a new home by as much as $36,500.
When combined with expanded HST relief worth up to $130,000 on eligible new homes, officials said qualifying Bradford West Gwillimbury families could see total savings of up to $166,500.
“In response to President Trump’s latest tariffs, our government is doing everything we can to lower costs for families, keep workers on the job and get shovels in the ground faster on new homes. Today’s investment will support infrastructure projects that enable the construction of tens of thousands of new homes, creating good-paying jobs and make the dream of homeownership a reality for families in Bradford West Gwillimbury,” said Ontario Premier Doug Ford.
The federal and provincial governments agreed in March to a cost-matched structure providing a combined $8.8 billion over 10 years for Ontario infrastructure investments, with the federal contribution flowing through the Build Communities Strong Fund.
“Together, we’re building Ontario and Canada strong. By partnering with Ontario, the federal government is helping speed up housing construction by lowering up front costs and investing in housing-enabling infrastructure projects — building strong, resilient communities that boost housing supply and drive economic opportunities,” said Jennifer McKelvie, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Member of Parliament for Ajax.
Bradford West Gwillimbury Estimates More Than 29,000 Homes Could Be Unlocked
Bradford West Gwillimbury estimates the development-charge savings and investment in housing-enabling infrastructure could unlock more than 29,000 new homes.
Under the plan, development charges for single and semi-detached homes would decline 47 per cent in urban and rural areas and 30 per cent in Bond Head.
Townhome charges would fall 65 per cent in urban areas, 63 per cent in rural areas and 41 per cent in Bond Head. Charges for two- and three-bedroom apartments would decrease 65 per cent in urban areas, 76 per cent in rural areas and 40 per cent in Bond Head.
One-bedroom apartment charges would be reduced 56 per cent in urban areas, 55 per cent in rural areas and 35 per cent in Bond Head.
“Across Ontario there is a need for critical infrastructure and housing of all types to support our fast-growing communities. That is why our government continues to deliver programs like the Development Charge Reduction Program alongside our federal partners, which helps provide municipalities like Bradford West Gwillimbury with the funding they need to ensure their city remains a desirable place to live, work and raise a family. Congratulations to Mayor Leduc and the Bradford West Gwillimbury Town Council for demonstrating incredible leadership and working with us to bring the dream of homeownership with reach for more Bradford West Gwillimbury families,” said Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
Water, Roads and Community Infrastructure Targeted
The $94.8-million commitment is expected to support several projects designed to accommodate additional residential construction.
Municipal Projects Include Water and Road Upgrades
Proposed investments include upgrades to Plant D at the Bradford Water Pollution Control Plant, increased municipal water storage at the John Fennell Reservoir, widening and reconstruction of the Line 8 corridor between Sideroad 10 and Barrie Street, and new Church Well infrastructure.
“This partnership is a major investment in BWG’s future. The $94.8 million funding will allow us to develop the water, road, and fire infrastructure our growing community needs for responsible growth. We thank the Province of Ontario and the Government of Canada for their continued partnership and commitment to Bradford West Gwillimbury,” said Mayor James Leduc.
Dawn Gallagher Murphy, MPP for Newmarket—Aurora, said the funding could simultaneously support housing development and employment.
“Investments like this are exactly what municipalities need right now. At a time of global uncertainty, Ontario will continue to protect this province by providing infrastructure investments that support the workers and businesses that truly drive our economy forward. The $94.8 million in infrastructure funding for Bradford West Gwillimbury will help unlock new housing development while supporting the creation of good-paying jobs. Together, we can make homeownership more attainable for young families.”
Funding Remains Subject to Agreements and Approvals
The development-charge reductions must receive Bradford West Gwillimbury council approval and remain effective for three years.
The funding is also conditional on the signing of a Canada-Ontario Build Communities Strong Fund agreement, further government due diligence and an Ontario-municipal Transfer Payment Agreement. Municipalities participating in the DCRP must contribute at least 10 per cent of project costs.
Dave Wilkes, president and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association, welcomed the agreement.
“The Building Industry and Land Development Association applauds all three levels of government for working together on an infrastructure investment solution that will support homes and employment opportunities in the growing community of Bradford West Gwillimbury. This is exciting news for local jobs and growth, while supporting new homebuyers, and helping to assist project viability. The Ontario government is again standing by their commitment to protect families and workers with this significant and meaningful investment for the sustainable future of the people and communities of Bradford West Gwillimbury.”
The initiative forms part of the broader Canada-Ontario Partnership to Build, with the DCRP prioritizing municipalities that reduce residential development charges by between 30 and 50 per cent or more and maintain those reductions for at least three years.
Evan McKenzie is a contributor at Vaughantoday.ca, covering a wide range of topics including local news, politics, business, technology, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on clear, balanced reporting that helps readers stay informed about current events and issues that matter to their communities. His work aims to provide useful information, timely updates, and relevant stories presented in an accessible and reader-friendly way.