Myths and facts about
mixed housing in Niagara

People have important questions about traffic, parking, neighbourhood character and the impact of new housing.

Illustration representing myths and facts about mixed housing in Niagara

Myths vs Facts

"More housing always means more traffic."

FALSE
Residential neighbourhood representing concerns about property values and mixed housing
Compact, mixed housing near services reduces car dependency and shortens trips, which cuts traffic overall.

"Mixed housing lowers property values."

FALSE
Neighbourhood street illustrating the misconception that more housing always increases traffic
Mixed housing does not automatically reduce property values. Mixed housing supports healthy neighbourhoods.

"Mixed housing is the same as social housing."

FALSE
Mixed housing neighbourhood with apartments, townhomes and local residents
Mixed housing can include duplexes, townhomes, apartments, secondary suites and other housing forms at different price points.

"More density means more crime."

FALSE
Mixed housing development integrated into an existing neighbourhood
No. Neighbourhoods with more people and active streets can support a strong sense of community and safety.

"Mixed housing will change my neighbourhood for the worse"

FALSE
Low-rise apartment housing integrated into a Niagara neighbourhood
The goal is homes for every stage of life, so the people who make your street great can stay.

"Multi-unit housing does not fit into existing neighbourhoods."

FALSE
Multi-unit housing designed to fit into an existing neighbourhood
Many forms of mixed housing can be planned and designed to sit comfortably next to existing homes while creating more housing choices for residents.

"More housing choice does not help local families."

FALSE
Rental housing supporting Niagara families, workers and students
More housing options can support community members who want to stay in Niagara, but need a home that better matches their needs and budget

"Public land shouldn’t be used for mixed-housing."

FALSE
Public land that could support future mixed housing development
When public land sits empty and underused, it could be used for creating more housing choices for people in Niagara.

Learn the different housing options

Low-rise apartment housing option in Niagara

Low-rise Apartment

Mid-rise rental apartment building in Niagara

Mid-rise Rental

Purpose-built rental housing development

Purpose-built Rental

Long-term care and supportive housing option for seniors

Long-term Care Homes

Secondary suite or basement apartment housing option

Secondary Suite

Duplex housing option in a Niagara neighbourhood

Duplex

Townhome housing development in Niagara

Townhome

Accessory dwelling unit supporting multigenerational living

Accessory Dwelling Unit

Explore housing options