About the organizations

Office of Policy Development and Research (PD&R)

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD's) Office of Policy Development and Research (PD&R) supports the Department's efforts to help create cohesive, economically healthy communities.
PD&R is responsible for maintaining current information on housing needs, market conditions, and existing programs, as well as conducting research on priority housing and community development issues. The Office provides reliable and objective data and analysis to help inform policy decisions. PD&R is committed to involving a greater diversity of perspectives, methods, and researchers in HUD research.

In 1978, PD&R established HUD USER, an information source for housing and community development researchers, academics, policymakers, and the American public. HUD USER is the primary source for federal government reports and information on housing policy and programs, building technology, economic development, urban planning, and other housing-related topics. HUD USER also creates and distributes a wide variety of useful information products and services.


Council of Large Public Housing Authorities (CLPHA)

The Council of Large Public Housing Authorities is a national non-profit organization that works to preserve and improve public and affordable housing through advocacy, research, policy analysis and public education.
CLPHA’s members represent virtually every major metropolitan area in the country. Together they manage 40 percent of the nation’s public housing program; administer 26 percent of the Housing Choice Voucher program; and operate a wide array of other housing programs.

As a multi-billion dollar asset, public housing is the cornerstone of affordable housing and community development. CLPHA:

  • Advocates for adequate public housing funding and policies that support local management and accountability.
  • Develops and analyzes policies impacting the public housing community.
  • Educates policymakers and the public about the critical role public housing plays in meeting affordable housing needs.