Just Released: Evidence Matters Spring 2018 Issue

The Spring 2018 issue of Evidence Matters: Transforming Knowledge Into Housing and Community Development Policy, which focuses on regulatory barriers and affordable housing, is now available. This issue examines how local communities can address regulatory barriers, current research on the impact of regulations on housing, and state actions leading to increased opportunities for local housing development.

Key Findings

• Local zoning codes, lengthy permitting processes, and rising levels of NIMBYism are primary causes of increased housing costs and a limited housing supply. Potential local solutions include updating old zoning codes, streamlining the approvals and permitting processes, and allowing by-right development.

• Evidence demonstrates that a positive relationship exists between land use regulations and the cost of housing. Current research indicates that low- and moderate-income families are disproportionately impacted by land use regulations due to increased housing prices.

• State policies reducing regulatory barriers can open the door for affordable housing development at the local level. Massachusetts and California have implemented policies to increase production of affordable housing and streamline development processes.

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