New Updates on The Edge

PD&R’s online magazine, The Edge, provides you with a snapshot view of our newly released research, periodicals, publications, news, and commentaries on housing and urban development issues. Stay informed on current topics and check back frequently, as our content is routinely updated.

Message from PD&R Leadership: Introducing the 2017 American Housing Survey

In the leadership message, director of PD&R’s Housing and Demographic Analysis Division Shawn Bucholtz discusses the release of the 2017 American Housing Survey (AHS) data. Bucholtz describes the biennial survey, the variables it measures, and the wide applicability of the data to government agencies, researchers, lenders, urban planners, and the housing industry at large. This year, in addition to the standard core modules, the AHS includes four topical modules on eviction, delinquent payments and notices, disaster planning, and commuting costs.

Featured: Catalytic Development

In June 2018, the Brookings Institution hosted an event focused on a new report by Christopher B. Leinberger and Tracy Hadden Loh, titled “Catalytic Development: (Re)creating Walkable Urban Places.” The authors presented their report describing catalytic development, a redevelopment strategy for urban centers and adjacent areas suffering depopulation and disinvestment. Following the presentation, six representatives from development efforts profiled in the report participated in two panel discussions.

In Practice: Permanent Supportive Housing for Women Recovering From Substance Abuse in Charleston, West Virginia

In December 2017, the nonprofit Recovery Point West Virginia opened a 24-unit permanent supportive housing development in Charleston, West Virginia. Eligible tenants are low-income women who have achieved sobriety by completing a long-term recovery program. The $3.87 million project is adjacent to one of Recovery Point West Virginia’s five residential treatment facilities, where tenants may access services including job training, family reunification support, and addiction recovery support.

Trending: Water Piping in the Home

Water piping is an important but rarely considered part of a home’s infrastructure. These pipes can be made of an array of materials, including metals and plastics. Today, cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), a type of plastic, has become many builders’ product of choice for residential water distribution. PEX came to prominence in the U.S. during the 1990s, and provides advantages to home builders, plumbers, and residents.