This paper was written and originally distributed in December, 1973. It has been reprinted because it continues to provide a valuable overview of public housing experiences, explanation of the problems confronting housing officials, and discussion of alternative government strategies. As a preface, however, a few comments should be made on the developments in the public housing program since 1973.

The number of units in conventional public housing was 664.000 in CY 1968. This figure rapidly increased to 1,032,400 in FY 74, and is expected to reach 1,112,000 by the end of FY 77. As the same time operating subsidies rose from a level of $35 million in FY 70, to $280 million in FY 74, and they are expected to be $576 million in FY 77.

This report is part of the collection of scanned historical documents available to the public.