Housing Authority reports high waitlist and rising housing costs for voucher programs

During the recent meeting of the Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority on April 16, 2025, officials discussed significant developments in local housing programs and the ongoing challenges faced by the community. The meeting highlighted the pressing need for affordable housing, as evidenced by the staggering number of individuals on waiting lists for housing assistance.

Currently, there are over 4,900 people on the waiting list for the Housing Choice Voucher program, with specific properties like Franklin Heights and Commerce Village also reporting high demand. The waiting list includes 1,600 individuals for Franklin Heights and 500 for Commerce Village. This situation underscores the urgent need for more affordable housing options in Harrisonburg, particularly for families, as a majority of those on the waiting list are single mothers with children.

The meeting also addressed the rising costs associated with housing assistance. The average cost per unit has reached $953, the highest recorded to date, which significantly impacts the authority's ability to serve more families. With an average monthly budget of $727,000, the authority can only assist approximately 727 families, highlighting the financial constraints faced in addressing the community's housing needs.

In addition to discussing the waiting lists and financial challenges, the authority reported positive developments in property maintenance and community engagement. Staff have successfully completed over 2,130 work orders, and unit turnover rates are improving, with only four vacancies reported. The authority is also focusing on community-building activities, such as a recent cleanup event at the Kelly Street Garden, which fostered community spirit and involvement.

Financially, the authority is slowly increasing its cash reserves, preparing for future projects like Commerce Village 2. This new development is expected to open in July, with plans to prioritize vulnerable populations, including veterans through VASH vouchers. The authority anticipates a smooth leasing process, given the high demand for housing in the area.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical housing challenges facing Harrisonburg, particularly the need for affordable options for families. While there are positive signs in property management and community engagement, the authority must navigate financial constraints and high demand to effectively serve the community's needs. The discussions set the stage for ongoing efforts to address these challenges and improve housing accessibility in Harrisonburg.