U.S. Cities Ramp Up Affordable Housing Efforts

U.S. cities are implementing various affordable housing initiatives to address shortages and rising costs. In Asheville, a proposed project aims to provide 159 affordable apartments for residents earning up to 80% of the area's median income, with affordability guaranteed for 45 years. Council Bluffs has involved high school students in building affordable homes with Habitat for Humanity, combining job training and housing supply. Plaquemine is introducing duplexes at significantly below-market rents, while local leaders highlight the persistent demand for more affordable options. Nationally, cities are revising zoning laws to encourage denser development and facilitate building on unconventional lots. Rapid increases in home prices and rents, as seen in Buffalo, are making homeownership less attainable, particularly for first-time buyers.