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Affordable housing remains a pressing issue across the globe, with governments, organizations, and advocates working tirelessly to address housing insecurity and affordability challenges. This past week, key policy changes, funding initiatives, and high-profile commitments have shaped the landscape of affordable housing. Here are three significant developments from last week.
1. HUD Eliminates Controversial Federal Zoning Rule
On February 26, 2025, Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the termination of the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) rule. The rule, originally implemented during the Obama administration, required localities to conduct extensive demographic analyses to receive community development block grants.
Critics, including former President Trump, argued that the rule imposed excessive federal oversight and threatened the character of suburban neighborhoods. Secretary Turner stated that removing the rule restores trust in local communities and property owners, allowing for market-driven development while still enforcing the Fair Housing Act of 1968. More details on this decision can be found in the New York Post.
2. HUD Awards $100 Million to Boost Affordable Housing Production
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced the allocation of $100 million in grant funding to 18 recipients across 15 states to enhance affordable housing production. This initiative aims to eliminate barriers to housing development and mitigate the high costs associated with buying and renting. The grants are part of the Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing program, designed to streamline processes and encourage the construction of affordable housing units nationwide. See more here.
3. Atlanta Beltline Exceeds Affordable Housing Goals for 2024
Atlanta Beltline Inc. announced that it surpassed its goal to create or preserve 300 affordable housing units near its trails in 2024, achieving 569 units, and expects to exceed this target again in 2025. This achievement is crucial for ensuring affordable housing is available in neighborhoods along the 22-mile Atlanta Beltline loop, allowing people of all income levels to benefit. Dennis Richards, vice president of housing policy and development, highlighted the momentum gained in reaching this milestone. More Details at axios.com.
