Northern B.C. communities receive housing grants, but Prince George left off funding list

The funding will support initiatives such as digitizing permit systems, updating zoning bylaws, improving records management and exploring modern construction methods, including prefabricated and modular housing.

Northern B.C. communities receiving grants include Smithers ($200,000), Masset ($200,000), Taylor ($200,000), Vanderhoof ($190,000), Wells ($170,000), Prince Rupert ($155,000), Houston ($150,000), Port Edward ($120,000), the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality ($100,000), Dawson Creek ($97,000), Stewart ($95,000) and the Kitimat-Stikine Regional District ($45,000). The North Coast Regional District also received funding.

The grants are intended to help local governments strengthen their capacity to process development applications and support new housing construction more efficiently.

Despite ongoing housing pressures in the region, Prince George was not among the 56 approved applicants. The city’s omission is notable given its status as Northern B.C.’s largest municipality and its role as a regional economic and service centre. Quesnel was also left out of this recent funding announcement.

Prince George has experienced growing demand for housing in recent years, driven by population growth, major industrial projects and continued economic development. As a result, housing availability and affordability remain key concerns for many residents.

The province did not provide a reason why Prince George was not included in this round of funding. More than 70 applications were submitted for the 2026 intake of the program, indicating competition for funding was significant. The government has stated that additional approvals may be announced in the future.

Minister of State for Local Governments and Rural Communities Brittny Anderson said the province remains committed to helping communities increase housing supply.

“The Province is building the housing people in B.C. need, with more than 99,000 homes built or underway,” Anderson said. “We’re going to continue our strong partnerships to build so British Columbians are able to afford to rent, to own and stay in the communities they work in.”

The program is administered by the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM). UBCM President Cori Ramsay said improving development approval processes is essential to delivering more homes across the province.

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Email: Adam.Berls@pattisonmedia.com

by Adam Berls

Northern B.C. communities receive housing grants, but Prince George left off funding list

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