Addressing the Rural Housing Crisis: A Call to Action
In a time where rural communities are facing a housing crisis that is impacting healthcare, education, and economic development, bold solutions are needed now more than ever. Governors Phil Scott of Vermont and Kelly Ayotte of New Hampshire have both recognized the urgent need to address housing challenges in their states. Gov. Scott called for regulatory reform, while Gov. Ayotte proposed an “all-of-the-above” strategy to tackle New Hampshire’s housing shortage.
The lack of new housing options in rural areas is leading to a shortage of employees, causing a ripple effect that is affecting various aspects of community life. When hospital jobs remain unfilled due to the lack of available housing for workers, the issue transforms from a problem to a crisis.
Creating Innovative Solutions with a Community-Centric Approach
The Northern Forest Center, a regional innovation and investment partner, is at the forefront of creating innovative rural housing solutions. By addressing barriers such as real estate speculation, limited availability of quality contractors, high material costs, zoning issues, and high interest rates, the center aims to bring integrated capital to under-invested communities.
Through a community-centric approach, the Northern Forest Center is developing middle-market housing options that are affordable and attractive to workers and families looking to move to or stay in rural communities. By partnering with local stakeholders and implementing a different business model for projects, the center is catalyzing additional investment in these areas.
Transforming Communities, One Project at a Time
Projects like the transformation of a historic armory in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, into mixed-use housing for middle-income earners, and the redevelopment of the historic Parker J. Noyes building in Lancaster, New Hampshire, are just a few examples of how the Northern Forest Center is making a tangible impact. By providing up to 10 new housing units in rural communities, these projects are not only addressing immediate housing needs but also contributing to the long-term resilience and economic vitality of these areas.
A Call for Community-Centric Solutions
As we navigate the rural housing crisis, it is crucial for policymakers, philanthropists, and housing practitioners to support community-based solutions. By prioritizing approaches that engage residents in the planning process, we can ensure that housing solutions are tailored to meet the unique needs of rural areas. Additionally, by making smart choices that prioritize sustainable products and adaptive reuse of existing buildings, we can reduce our carbon footprint and maintain affordability for middle-income earners.
Let’s seize this moment and come together to address the rural housing crisis with creativity, innovation, and a shared focus on building vibrant, resilient communities for the future.
