Is the traditional single-family home on the way out in Coquitlam?
That's unlikely but it may have to be so future generations can live here in ground-level housing.
The city had hoped to get more applications for duplex, triplex and fourplex developments in southwest Coquitlam as a result of its Housing Choices program. But there has been little uptake by developers. Instead, the city is receiving applications to subdivide into two lots for the standard two-home redevelopment.
Having people live in a home with an adjoining wall is a tougher sell, it seems.
But what can be done to create more affordable multi-home projects so the next generation can afford to live in the city?
One idea is to limit the size of homes in the southwest area of the city, where the Housing Choice program is being encouraged. Another is to pre-zone areas that would fast-track some of these projects.
Whatever is chosen will take care and consideration. But if the outcome is more affordable ground level housing — the so-called missing middle — then we are all for it.
