Across the United States, new affordable housing developments are breaking ground in major cities and small towns alike, offering hope to families struggling with rising rents and home prices. From Connecticut to California, here’s a look at how communities are responding to the urgent need for lower-cost housing.
Connecticut: Oak Woods breaks ground after two decades of delay
In Plymouth, Connecticut, construction has finally begun on the Oak Woods development, a $24 million project that was delayed for 20 years. Led by Connecticut Housing Partners, the development will include 47 energy-efficient, two-bedroom townhouse units.
- 12 units at 30% AMI: ~$338/month
- 20 units at 50% AMI: ~$1,285/month
- 15 units at 80% AMI: ~$2,000/month
The project, set for completion in 2026, aims to help Plymouth move closer to meeting the state’s 10% affordable housing goal. Currently, the town sits at 7.26% affordable units.
Oregon: Bend’s Cascade Landing community underway
In Bend, Oregon, Cascade Landing is under construction, with plans to deliver 194 affordable units by 2027. Built in two phases, the project targets residents earning 30-60% of the area median income.
- Features include EV stations, solar panels, and a 4.5-acre city park
- 98 units in Phase I, 96 in Phase II
- Supportive services offered onsite through local nonprofits
The $41 million Phase I is funded by a mix of state grants, city loans, and financing from Key Bank. Officials praise the project as a model of public-private partnership.
California: Oakland’s affordable housing boom
Oakland is seeing its fastest affordable housing growth in over a decade, thanks to Measure U, a 2022 voter-approved bond allocating $350 million for housing.
- In 2024, more affordable units were permitted than market-rate ones
- Over 700 low-income homes permitted in 2024
- 25 new affordable housing projects in the pipeline
City leaders say the key challenge is not demand, but funding. One apartment can cost up to $1 million to build in California. Still, officials are optimistic about maintaining the pace thanks to remaining Measure U funds and anticipated support from Measure W, a homelessness-focused sales tax.
New Jersey: Jersey City’s mixed-use model with affordability
Jersey City recently approved a 15-story, 321-unit development at 166 Van Wagenen Avenue in the Marion neighborhood. The project includes:
- 32 affordable units (10% of total)
- Rooftop pool and sun decks
- 3,925-square-foot public plaza
Though the majority of units will be market rate, the inclusion of affordable housing aligns with Jersey City’s broader redevelopment and transit-oriented goals.
New Jersey suburbs: Transit zoning hopes vs. reality
In suburban Westfield, NJ, officials approved an affordable housing plan centered around overlay zoning near the town’s train station. It outlines potential for 100 new affordable units, but all selected sites are currently in use by businesses.
Critics say the strategy may look good on paper but lacks a clear path to actual development. Housing advocates are reviewing compliance across municipalities as a June 30 state deadline looms.
What’s next?
Affordable housing remains a priority in many states, but the path forward depends on:
- Continued local and federal funding
- Streamlined permitting processes
- Creative zoning strategies
- Sustainable design and energy efficiency
While challenges remain, 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year in the nationwide effort to make housing more accessible.
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