The town of Gander is welcoming $4.35 million in funding from the federal Housing Accelerator Fund.

The money is meant to fast-track the creation of 100,000 new homes or accommodations across the country.

Town officials say Gander’s population has seen steady growth of 23 per cent over two decades from 2001 to 2021, surpassing the provincial average.

The town says despite higher-than-average incomes, 17.5 per cent of households in the town face affordability issues, with renters the hardest hit.

Gander has developed what it calls a comprehensive action plan designed to stimulate housing development and ensure a broader range of housing options in town.

The plan includes an affordable housing incentive package, housing-based zoning and regulatory reforms, middle and high-sensitivity housing tools, and the adoption of innovative practices to promote the timely provision of affordable housing options.

A municipal infrastructure funding announcement was scheduled for this morning in Gander at the Brigg’s Street Neighbourhood Park.

Minister John Abbott and MHA John Haggie were expected to be on hand, along with Mayor Percy Farwell.