Affordable Housing in Pugwash: $7M Investment Creates Jobs & Expands Sustainable Communities

Canada’s housing crisis requires bold solutions, and one rural community in Nova Scotia is leading the way. A new $7 million federal investment through the Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) is funding the construction of 40 housing units in Pugwash, a project designed to make housing more accessible, sustainable, and community driven.

Sunrise Landing: A Model for Affordable Housing

The development, named Sunrise Landing, is led by Sunset Community in partnership with local builder Crossroads Cycle. It will feature a mix of affordable and market-rate units, including deeply affordable homes for vulnerable residents and three-bedroom units designated for workforce housing.

For design and construction professionals, Sunrise Landing is a case study in how purposeful collaboration between non-profits, government, and local builders can address urgent housing needs while also creating jobs and stimulating local economies.

Economic & Workforce Impact

Job Creation: The project will generate new construction jobs and create ongoing demand for skilled trades such as carpentry, electrical, and plumbing.
Workforce Housing: Crossroads Cycle will lease several units at market rates specifically for their employees, reducing commute times and helping attract talent.
Local Economy Boost: Increased demand for materials, services, and small businesses will help strengthen the Cumberland County region.

Designing for Growth & Inclusion

What makes Sunrise Landing particularly innovative is its scalable site design, the development can expand in the future to meet rising housing demand. It is also an inclusive model, designed to support residents from diverse backgrounds, including those transitioning from care programs, local workers, and families.

For architects, designers, engineers, and project managers, this project highlights the growing demand for sustainable, community-focused housing, and the career opportunities that come with it.

What This Means for Professionals in Architecture & Construction

Projects like Sunrise Landing reflect a national trend: housing initiatives that combine affordability, sustainability, and economic growth. This creates significant opportunities for:

Architects & Designers – to shape housing solutions that blend affordability with thoughtful design.
Engineers – to ensure efficiency, sustainability, and adaptability in construction.
Trades & Skilled Workers – to fill the urgent labor demand in construction and housing infrastructure.
Project Managers – to lead complex builds requiring collaboration across multiple stakeholders.

At Inter/Arch Jobs, we connect professionals with opportunities in exactly these kinds of impactful projects. Whether you’re seeking to design, engineer, or build the next generation of housing, we’re here to help you find your role in shaping Canada’s communities.