New Haven aims for 10000 new housing units by 2034 to address affordability

In the heart of New Haven's city hall, a palpable sense of urgency filled the air as city leaders gathered for the Full Board of Alders Meeting on February 3, 2025. The focus of the meeting was clear: addressing the pressing need for affordable housing in a city poised for growth.

Mayor's remarks highlighted a remarkable achievement—over 1,000 new housing units constructed in the past year, with more than 40% designated as affordable. This progress stands in stark contrast to other municipalities that resist growth, as New Haven opens its doors to new residents and embraces its diverse community. The Mayor emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Together this past year, we built over 1,000 new housing units,” and underscoring the city’s commitment to inclusivity.

Looking ahead, the Mayor set an ambitious goal: to construct 10,000 new housing units over the next decade, with at least 30% of those being affordable. This vision is driven by a recent statewide report indicating a dire need for 110,000 new housing units across Connecticut to meet current demand. “If we do not increase the number of housing units available, the price of our existing housing will go up and up,” the Mayor warned, drawing a parallel to rising costs in other sectors when supply fails to meet demand.

The meeting also addressed landlord accountability, a critical issue for many residents. The Mayor announced strengthened housing code enforcement, including increased fines for violations, which now can reach up to $2,000 per day. This initiative aims to ensure that all residents live in safe and healthy environments. Additionally, a new ordinance was passed to empower tenants, allowing those in smaller buildings to form tenant unions, thereby enhancing their ability to advocate for their rights.

As the discussion shifted towards support for the unhoused, the Mayor highlighted the city’s efforts to provide shelter and services, including a new rest center in Edgewood and additional shelters. “We’ve given more than any other city in Connecticut to help those that are unhoused,” he stated, reflecting a commitment to compassion and community support.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration to ensure New Haven remains a vibrant place to live, emphasizing the need for safe streets, a robust local economy, and quality education. As the city embarks on this ambitious housing initiative, the leaders of New Haven are determined to create a future where affordable housing is not just a goal, but a reality for all residents.