Transforming an Historic Prison into Affordable Housing: A Step Toward Addressing Canada’s Housing Crisis

A New Chapter for St-Vincent Penitentiary

In a significant move to address the housing crisis in Canada, the federal government has announced plans to repurpose the historic St-Vincent-de-Paul Penitentiary in Laval, Quebec, into affordable housing. This initiative is part of the Public Lands for Homes Plan, which aims to transform surplus and underused public properties into much-needed housing options. The decision was confirmed by federal Minister of Public Services and Procurement Jean-Yves Duclos, who emphasized the socio-economic benefits this project will bring to Canadians. The site will be transferred to the Canada Lands Company by the end of 2025, with the goal of creating not only affordable housing but also community spaces for local residents.

The St-Vincent penitentiary, built in 1873, holds significant historical value. Originally a reform school, it later became a federal penitentiary and was one of the few French-language correctional facilities in Canada. After ceasing operations in 1989, the property was declared a National Historic Site of Canada in 1990. Its transformation into affordable housing marks a new chapter in its history, aligning with the federal government’s commitment to tackling the housing crisis through innovative solutions.

Addressing the Housing Crisis with Public Lands

The Canada Public Land Bank, launched in August 2024, is central to this effort. The program identifies underused public properties across the country and repurposes them for housing development. Since its launch, nearly 100 properties have been identified as potential sites for affordable housing projects. The redevelopment of the St-Vincent penitentiary is one of the first major projects under this initiative, showcasing the government’s “whole-of-government” approach to addressing the housing crisis.

Correctional Service Canada is set to complete its due diligence process by April 2025, paving the way for the site’s official transfer. Once the project is underway, the Canada Lands Company will oversee the development, ensuring that the housing units and community spaces are designed to benefit local residents. This approach not only addresses the urgent need for affordable housing but also aims to preserve the site’s historical significance for future generations.

A Historic Site with a Troubled Past

The St-Vincent-de-Paul Penitentiary has a rich and complex history. Built on land originally occupied by a Sisters of Providence Sacred Heart Convent, the site was purchased by the Government of Canada East in 1861 to establish a reform school. Over the years, it served as a federal penitentiary and became notorious for a 1962 riot that required military intervention. The prison’s closure in 1989 marked the end of an era, but its legacy lives on as a National Historic Site of Canada.

The decision to repurpose this site reflects a broader shift in how Canada is reimagining its surplus public properties. Instead of allowing historic sites to fall into disrepair, the government is embracing an opportunity to breathe new life into them while addressing pressing social needs. Similar discussions are underway in other provinces, such as Ontario, where the former Kingston Penitentiary is being considered for redevelopment into housing.

Community Reaction and the Road Ahead

Local leaders have welcomed the announcement, with Laval Mayor Stéphane Boyer calling it “excellent news.” The mayor highlighted the significance of this project, noting that the redevelopment of the St-Vincent penitentiary was a priority topic during his first meeting with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The project has been years in the making, and its official confirmation is a testament to the collaborative efforts of federal, provincial, and municipal authorities.

The redevelopment of the St-Vincent penitentiary is more than just a housing project—it represents a commitment to building stronger, more inclusive communities. By transforming a site once associated with confinement and corrections into a space for living and connection, the government is sending a powerful message about the potential for redemption and renewal. As the project moves forward, residents of Laval and beyond will be watching closely to see how this vision takes shape.

The Future of Affordable Housing in Canada

The transformation of the St-Vincent penitentiary is part of a larger national effort to tackle the housing crisis. With nearly 100 properties identified for potential development under the Canada Public Land Bank, the federal government is taking concrete steps to ensure that surplus public lands are used to benefit Canadians. This approach not only addresses the urgent need for affordable housing but also promotes sustainable urban development and community revitalization.

As the country continues to grapple with rising housing costs and limited availability, initiatives like the Public Lands for Homes Plan offer a glimmer of hope. By repurposing historic sites like the St-Vincent penitentiary, Canada is not only preserving its past but also building a more equitable and accessible future for its citizens. The success of this project will depend on continued collaboration between all levels of government and the active participation of local communities. Together, Canada can turn underused spaces into vibrant, inclusive neighborhoods that reflect the nation’s values of compassion, innovation, and progress.