More homes needed for state’s health

For the last seven years, the number of permits issued in Rhode Island for construction of new multifamily and single-family housing units has remained below 1,000 per year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Yet, with a need for 34,600 to 40,200 housing units in the next decade, according to Rhode Island Housing, it is clear that Rhode Island is not close to creating enough homes to fill the need. Why is this happening?

The Great Recession clearly put a crimp in housing construction. But the residential construction industry sees a concerted effort to limit growth. From impact fees to minimum lot sizes, the only homes that seem to be built these days are those at the high end of the spectrum.

The General Assembly is looking at placing another housing bond on the November ballot. And it should.

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But beyond the bond, Rhode Island needs to take a hard look at increasing its housing stock. The lack of affordable housing in the state is an economic-development hindrance. And that is one thing that the state cannot afford. •

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