Cities and counties across the nation are increasingly interested in offering incentive programs for housing projects to address pressing challenges related to affordability, workforce retention, and economic growth. Cities and counties across the nation are increasingly interested in offering incentive programs for housing projects to address pressing challenges related to affordability, workforce retention, and economic growth.
The term “moderate income housing” refers to housing options that are affordable to households earning a moderate income, generally defined as those earning between 80% and 120% of the area median income (AMI). This range varies by location, as it’s based on the local cost of living and income levels.
Further, “workforce housing” refers to housing options that are affordable to households earning between 60% and 120% AMI.
Housing numbers haven’t grown enough over the last five years to keep up with previously projected growth populations. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates Pottawatomie County had 10,400 units in 2023. According to Plan Pottawatomie County 2040 (the County’s strategic plan), we will require 14,162 housing units to accommodate the median population projection of 34,971 people. As it stands, to catch up, we need 235 new units per year now through 2040 to meet the needs for that population projection.
This case study focuses on the development of a 10-unit multiplex and adjacent ADA-compliant duplex housing project in Wamego, Kansas. The project utilized a historic building and involved a range of partners, taking advantage of grants and incentives. The project aimed to address affordable housing needs in the area while fostering economic development.
Attainable housing is a foundational element of economic development. Community involvement in promoting attainable housing ensures that the local economy remains competitive, resilient, and inclusive, while supporting the long-term growth and well-being of the community.
Housing affordability has become a widespread issue across the United States, affecting both urban areas and small rural communities. Key reasons include rising construction costs, land and infrastructure costs, limited housing supply, migration trends, interest rates and financing challenges, and more.
