Town of Amherst spending $400K on land for executive housing development
AMHERST, N.S. — The Town of Amherst is expanding its housing options with plans to develop executive-level homes in a new subdivision.
Aiming to diversify housing offerings, the town has purchased a 15-acre parcel of land at the end of Marshview Drive to create 30 new building lots for moderately large standalone homes, the type of housing the town says it is lacking.
“The town typically sees about 35 housing units built within the town each year. In 2023 there were approximately 70 units constructed,” said Mayor David Kogon. “In 2024 we fully expect in excess of 200 units to be constructed, which will significantly impact our current housing shortage.”
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The $400,000 purchase, approved at a special council meeting, will be funded over three years, with $200,000 allocated from reserves this year. The remaining funds will be budgeted over the next two capital budgets.
The town says the costs are expected to be recouped through lot sales, and property taxes from homeowners can provide financial returns to the town in the future.
Construction is set to begin this spring on approximately 10 lots, while services such as water, sewer and street infrastructure are already in place.
Marketing of the lots will be handled by a local real estate firm, yet to be selected.
