The City of Phoenix is making substantial headway in addressing its housing needs, as presented in a comprehensive report to the Phoenix City Council. The Housing Department is at the helm, managing over a thousand public housing units and administering more than 7,500 Housing Choice Vouchers. Additionally, with more than 3,900 citywide units and 300 in construction, their combined efforts are working toward a city where affordable housing isn't an afterthought.
Under the ambitious Housing Phoenix Plan (HPP), the city council set a target of 50,000 new or preserved housing units by 2030—currently, they report having achieved 96% of that goal with over 48,000 units, of which approximately 22% are classified as affordable the remainder fall under workforce and market-rate housing. Simultaneously, zoning amendments have seen the approval of accessory dwelling units citywide, issuing 233 building permits for such units by September 2024, reflecting a city increasingly accommodating of diverse living spaces, according to the City of Phoenix website.
Public-private partnerships have not been left behind in Phoenix’s concerted push for more housing, with four development projects awarded gap funding from a $6 million pot, courtesy of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) in June 2023. This translates into over 500 new affordable housing units. Furthermore, $5 million of ARPA funds was allocated to a local community development corporation, which is slated to provide at least 25 new homeownership opportunities within a Community Land Trust, ensuring those assets continue to benefit the community at large.
The efforts to foster a stable housing environment are complemented by incentive programs for landlords to embrace the HCV scheme, where, despite the exhaustion of the CARES Act and ARPA funding, over 900 new landlords have engaged, a testament to the program's sustained traction. Meanwhile, gap financing continues to promote long-term affordability with 8,700+ units receiving support and a requirement for a 40-year commitment to affordable rents after receiving city funding; a clear commitment from Phoenix to its citizens in securing affordable living.
The Housing Department is investing $3 million to provide internet access and digital skills training in over 35 affordable housing communities, helping residents keep up with technology. A recent housing assessment also shows major challenges: a shortage of housing, 52% of rental households being cost-burdened, and a gap of 59,000 units for those earning 50% or less of the median income.