The New Shoreham Housing Board is taking significant steps to address the island's pressing housing challenges, following a recent meeting where key findings from a 2022 housing needs survey were discussed. The town has engaged Weston and Sampson through a municipal technical assistance grant from Rhode Island Housing to update zoning and subdivision regulations, aiming to create a more effective regulatory framework for housing development.

The survey, which garnered a 10% response rate from year-round residents, revealed alarming trends: approximately 40% of respondents are forced to relocate seasonally, and many spend over 60% of their income on housing. The survey also highlighted a critical shortage of affordable rentals, with about half of respondents expressing a desire for homeownership, yet facing high property prices that keep them in the rental market.

The median income in New Shoreham is around $66,000, while the median home price skyrockets to $1.6 million, creating a stark affordability gap. To bridge this divide, the board is exploring various housing typologies, such as cottage courts and stacked flats, which could allow for more units on limited land, thereby reducing costs per unit.

Additionally, the board is considering zoning updates to facilitate the development of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and potentially creating a community land trust to support affordable homeownership. These initiatives aim to enhance housing availability and affordability, ensuring that the needs of the community are met.

As the board moves forward, they plan to conduct further analysis and engage with local stakeholders to refine their strategies. The implications of these discussions are profound, as they seek to create a sustainable housing environment that can accommodate the diverse needs of New Shoreham's residents.