Researcher(s)
- Victoria Tesoro, International Relations, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Jennifer Reitz, Institute of Public Administration, University of Delaware
Abstract
This presentation explores the workforce housing shortage in Delaware. According to the 2023 Housing Needs Assessment, Delaware is short over 20,000 workforce housing units. This makes it hard for middle-class individuals to afford a place to live, specifically those making 60-120% of the town’s Area Median Income (AMI). My research provides a comparative case study analysis, showcasing several workforce housing programs executed in other states compared to what Delaware is currently doing. This includes Colorado’s Middle-Income Housing Authority, New Jersey’s $50 million Workforce Housing Program, and Pennsylvania’s Housing Action Plan. These case studies will help evaluate the effectiveness of Delaware’s current workforce housing programs. Delaware established Delaware’s Workforce Housing Program under Title 31 Chapter 40, which aims to increase the total amount of workforce housing for residents. Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) is allocating $5 million towards this program. The state passed SB 23, mandating that towns with populations larger than 2,000 include affordable housing in their comprehensive plans. Overall, this presentation will examine how Delaware can successfully incorporate out-of-state workforce housing programs to provide long-term workforce housing for Delaware residents. Furthermore, my research suggests that Delaware can improve their workforce housing supply by establishing a Workforce Housing Authority, reforming zoning laws to allow for higher density housing, and expanding employer-assisted housing programs.