Nowadays, you can't throw a stone without hitting a "socially conscious" or "socially responsible" residential development project. Let's assume for a second that most of the firms involved in these projects are genuinely interested in making a difference while making a profit. The question remains: why aren't we seeing a substantive change in the amount and type of … [Read more...] about Taking the best path forward.
Development
Can Opportunity Zones provide opportunity?
Since the first New Deal housing policies emerged in the 1930s, governments from the municipal level all the way up to the federal government have sought ways to help alleviate the lack of affordable in this country. While there have been many successes, there have also been notable missteps. Infamous projects like Queensbridge in New York City and Cabrini Green in Chicago … [Read more...] about Can Opportunity Zones provide opportunity?
Shaping a sustainable environment.
Developers and architects have the opportunity to sell a new vision of sustainability in the United States. Many people see private capital and sustainability as fundamentally at odds with each other. Some even question the value that developers, architects and investors bring to the community building or redevelopment process. But civic-minded investors have the opportunity … [Read more...] about Shaping a sustainable environment.
Challenges of natural affordable housing.
We all know that many areas in the US are suffering from an affordability crisis but what's less known is the impact of broader economic influences on weak versus strong sub-markets within a single city or region. Housing affordability issues are incredibly complex, and they take different forms depending on how well the overall economy is performing. As always, however, it is … [Read more...] about Challenges of natural affordable housing.
Securing housing.
Homelessness and housing insecurity are among the greatest challenges facing our communities. The US Department of Housing and Urban Development, in their 2018 Annual Homeless Assessment, reported that there were more than 550,000 homeless men, women, and children in the United States. Numerous factors contribute to the growing homeless crisis. The primary drivers include the … [Read more...] about Securing housing.