Mayors from around the country agree that more support is needed at the federal level to strengthen housing assistance programs.
A survey from the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) and the American Institute of Architects (AIA) reflects the grim realities of the housing crisis, with data showing that nearly 7 in 10 Americans worry about their day-to-day housing costs. “The message from mayors is clear—the housing crisis is severe, widespread, and worsening.”
According to the USCM, “In the past three years, the median monthly rental price has increased by 18% and the median purchase price for housing has increased by 21%.” The National Housing Survey found that the housing shortage is expected to grow by more than 2 million units in the next five years. Many mayors indicated their cities are in the process of reforming zoning and land use regulations to encourage more housing production. “Nearly all mayors recognized the critical importance of offering diverse options, including missing middle and infill housing, to meet the unique needs of different individuals and families.”
Among mayors surveyed, “Nearly 90% called on Congress to build on existing federal programs: the low-income housing credit, housing vouchers, Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), and HOME program.”
FULL STORY: ICYMI: National Survey Reveals Worsening Housing Crisis
DC Residents Want Affordability Over ‘Character’
A poll finds that most residents want to see changes in zoning and land use laws that unlock more housing construction in the District and improve affordability.
New Jersey Calls for 85,000 New Housing Units
A state law known as the Mount Laurel Doctrine mandates that each jurisdiction accommodate enough new housing units to meet the local demand for affordable housing.
Can Zoning Reform Save Pittsburgh’s Affordable Housing?
With home sale prices growing faster than anywhere in the country, the Steel City could enact major reforms to boost density and lower housing costs.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Congressman Proposes Bill to Rename DC Metro “Trump Train”
The Make Autorail Great Again Act would withhold federal funding to the system until the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), rebrands as the Washington Metropolitan Authority for Greater Access (WMAGA).
The Simple Legislative Tool Transforming Vacant Downtowns
In California, Michigan and Georgia, an easy win is bringing dollars — and delight — back to city centers.
The States Losing Rural Delivery Rooms at an Alarming Pace
In some states, as few as 9% of rural hospitals still deliver babies. As a result, rising pre-term births, no adequate pre-term care and harrowing close calls are a growing reality.
The Small South Asian Republic Going all in on EVs
Thanks to one simple policy change less than five years ago, 65% of new cars in this Himalayan country are now electric.
DC Backpedals on Bike Lane Protection, Swaps Barriers for Paint
Citing aesthetic concerns, the city is removing the concrete barriers and flexposts that once separated Arizona Avenue cyclists from motor vehicles.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Smith Gee Studio
City of Charlotte
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
US High Speed Rail Association
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
Municipality of Princeton (NJ)