Housing
Housing Plan presentation, July 18, 2007 (PDF, 7.67 MB)
In response to the growing concern over the lack of housing choice and diversity throughout Chester County, Landscapes2 has identified Housing as the lead topic for the Steering Committee to consider.
Why Plan for Housing?
Economic Stability
Housing that is affordable to the workforce is critical to the local economy, and directly impacts the ability of employers to recruit and retain staff. Businesses, commercial establishments, schools districts, universities, and municipal governments employ workers at moderate-income levels who often cannot afford housing within the communities they serve.
Commuting and Traffic
The shortage of affordable workforce housing causes young professionals and young families to locate in outlying areas, far removed from their jobs. Longer commutes add to transportation costs and traffic congestion, and detract from the local and regional quality of life.
Sustainable Agriculture
Decent, affordable housing for farm laborers is needed to support the continued success of crop agriculture and equine operations as local industries.
Aging Population
The growing population of seniors (age 65+), living longer, healthier lives, is presenting challenges for the housing market. Creating more housing alternatives, that address the spectrum of income levels and lifestyle choices/limitations, will be the key to meeting these challenges.
Supporting Special Needs
Safe, stable and affordable housing, accessible to transportation and employment, is critical to the recovery process for mental health clients and other special needs populations.
Brain Drain
Diverse, affordable housing options, tied to public transportation, are needed to attract students to higher education opportunities and to encourage college graduates to remain in the community.
Sustaining Families
Affordable housing is critically important to the health and well being of children and families. When housing needs are appropriately met, children are more likely to be healthy and perform well in school, and parents are more likely to be productive members of a strong workforce.*
*Christenson, Sandra. “A Family View of Mobility Among Low-Income Children” 1999. The Importance of Stable Housing for Children and Families. 10 July 2007 <http://gmhf.com/programs/single-family/2004_families_background.htm>.