The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) is tackling its long-standing housing crisis head-on with a nationwide initiative to expand and modernize military accommodations. In a significant move to improve living conditions for service members, Defence Minister Bill Blair announced plans to build 668 new residential units and renovate more than 600 existing ones at military bases across Canada.
Speaking at CFB Borden on Thursday, Blair emphasized the unique housing challenges faced by military personnel, who frequently relocate to new communities, often without adequate time or resources to secure stable housing.
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“To ensure that members of the Canadian Armed Forces can do the critical work we ask of them, they must be well supported throughout their entire military career,” Blair stated. “That means making sure they have safe, affordable, and comfortable housing no matter where they are posted.”
This multi-million-dollar housing expansion is being spearheaded by the Canadian Armed Forces Housing Agency (CAFHA) in response to rising concerns over housing shortages, affordability, and the impact of frequent relocations on military families.
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CFB Borden Leads the Way with New Housing Projects
Blair made the announcement in front of the newly completed Cambra Accommodation Building at CFB Borden, a $50-million housing project featuring:
✅ 350 modern sleeping quarters
✅ Common lounge areas for social interaction
✅ Study rooms for academic and professional development
✅ Laundry facilities and storage spaces
✅ Office spaces for military personnel
Additionally, 120 new residential housing units are planned for construction at CFB Borden, providing much-needed relief for service members and their families.
CFB Borden plays a critical role in Canadian military operations, serving as the primary training ground for nearly 20,000 members annually and housing over 5,000 stationed personnel across 35 military units.
Nationwide Housing Expansion to Address High-Demand Military Bases
Beyond CFB Borden, the nationwide military housing initiative includes significant projects at bases with the highest number of incoming service members and long-term training personnel.
New Housing Developments and Renovations Will Take Place at:
🏠 Gagetown, New Brunswick
🏠 Halifax, Nova Scotia
🏠 Valcartier, Quebec
🏠 Trenton, Kingston, and Petawawa, Ontario
🏠 Edmonton, Alberta (construction on six new units is already underway)
🏠 Esquimalt, British Columbia
Blair confirmed that these housing projects will be completed within the next few years, ensuring military personnel across Canada have access to modern, secure, and comfortable living spaces.
“Housing is the Foundation of Military Well-Being” – Lt.-Gen. Lise Bourgon
Lt.-Gen. Lise Bourgon, Commander of Military Personnel Command and Chief of Military Personnel, underscored the importance of stable housing in the lives of service members.
“Housing is not simply about providing shelter; it’s about creating a space where our personnel can thrive, where families feel supported, and where the stability of home life allows service members to focus on their demanding roles without unnecessary distractions or worry.”
She emphasized that the new housing projects reflect the CAF’s commitment to improving the quality of life for military families and ensuring personnel have the proper environment to succeed in their careers.
“These plans are not just about physical infrastructure,” Bourgon added. “They are about the broader support system we owe to those who dedicate themselves to serving this country.”
The lack of modern, accessible, and affordable housing has long been a concern for service members, and the newly announced housing projects are a direct response to those concerns.
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Building for the Future: A Long-Term Commitment to Military Housing
With these housing improvements, the Department of National Defence (DND) aims to address both short-term and long-term housing needs for military personnel. The plan aligns with broader efforts to enhance recruitment, retention, and overall quality of life for Canada’s Armed Forces.
Key Takeaways from the Military Housing Expansion:
✔ 668 new residential units and 600+ renovations across Canadian military bases
✔ $50-million Cambra Accommodation Building at CFB Borden now open
✔ CFB Borden to receive an additional 120 residential housing units
✔ Projects underway in major military hubs, including Edmonton, Halifax, Trenton, and more
✔ Improved housing designed to offer stability, support, and well-being for military families
As construction continues over the next few years, these housing projects will provide safe, modern, and accessible homes for Canada’s dedicated service members, ensuring they can focus on their mission without the added stress of finding a place to live.
With these improvements, the Canadian Armed Forces is taking a critical step forward in supporting its personnel and strengthening military communities across the nation.
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