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Key State Roles

There are a number of different ways in which states can help expand the supply of affordable homes. A brief summary of each role, along with supporting examples, may be found by
clicking on the links below.
Require Preparation of Affordable Housing Plans
MLK Plaza
Some states require localities to prepare a standalone housing plan, or incorporate a housing component in the comprehensive plan, to help ensure that housing affordability goals are identified and met.

Create Enforceable Rights to Support Development
Treehouse
States can help to streamline the approvals process for affordable homes, and encourage the creation of mixed-income communities, by creating enforceable "rights" to development.

Enact Enabling Legislation to Authorize Local Action
Dorado Senior Apartments
In many states, enabling legislation must be enacted in order for localities to be authorized to create certain programs to promote affordability, including tax increment financing and inclusionary zoning.


Increase and Improve Targeting of Resources
Fall Creek Place
State and local governments can help to increase the development opportunities and the supply of affordable homes by making suitable publicly-owned land available for housing development.

Educate and Convene to Encourage Action
University Macombs
Through community development and housing policies that encourage conversion of vacant properties into affordable homes, communities can reduce blight and increase housing opportunities for working families.

Offer Incentives to Promote Affordability
Potterhill_homes
States can offer incentives to developers and to municipalities to encourage affordability in targeted areas, including neighborhoods surrounding existing or proposed job centers and transit stops.

Photo credits (clockwise from upper left): MLK Plaza, Philadelphia PA -- photo courtesy of Philadelphia Housing Authority; Treehouse at Easthampton Meadow, Easthampton MA -- photo credit Greig Cranna courtesy of MassHousing; Dorado Senior Apartments, Buena Park CA -- photo courtesy of Meta Housing; photo courtesy of Potterhill Homes; University Macombs, New York NY -- photo credit Larry Racioppo courtesy of New York City Housing Preservation and Development; Fall Creek Place, Indianapolis IN -- photo courtesy of ULI Development Case Studies