New Updates on The Edge

In Practice:
Affordable Housing Complements Redevelopment in Minneapolis’ North Loop Neighborhood
In 2016, developer Schafer Richardson opened the Cameron, a 44-unit affordable apartment building in Minneapolis’ North Loop neighborhood. The $12.2 million development contains 23 studios, 17 one-bedroom units, and 4 two-bedroom units, all of which are occupied by households earning up to 60 percent of the area median income. Once a disused warehouse, the building dates back to the early 20th century and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places because of its unique structural elements.

Research:
Characteristics of HUD-Assisted Renters
The new PD&R-sponsored study Characteristics of HUD-Assisted Renters and Their Units in 2013 used data from the American Housing Survey to compare households living in HUD-assisted housing to households that are eligible for but not receiving assistance. The report found that HUD’s assisted housing programs are successfully targeting the lowest income renter households and supporting the availability of affordable housing. The data also show an increase in participation in the Housing Choice Voucher program and a decrease in participation in project-based assistance programs.

Message from PD&R Leadership:
Giving Public Housing Agencies More Time to Succeed
HUD recently informed public housing agencies (PHAs) in 23 metropolitan areas of the department’s decision to delay the mandatory implementation of Small Area Fair Market Rents. Those PHAs that are not yet ready to put the new rule into effect now have an additional two years to prepare. Todd M. Richardson, acting general deputy assistant secretary for the Office of Policy Development and Research, explains the research behind the decision and provides recommendations for implementing the Small Area Fair Market Rent (FMR) Final Rule by January 1, 2020.

Trending:
Cooling Buildings With Green Urban Infrastructure
A phenomenon called the urban heat island (UHI) effect causes cities to experience higher air temperatures than less developed surrounding areas. This effect increases the risk of heat-related illnesses and drives up energy costs associated with air conditioning. Researchers have suggested using the passive cooling methods of green urban infrastructure as a means of reducing the UHI effect. Incorporating design elements such as ground vegetation, trees, vertical greenery systems, and bare soil can reduce building temperatures through shading, evapotranspiration, and insulation.

Please send your comments and suggestions to editor@huduser.gov.