City plans 900 mixed-income homes with 25% permanent affordability on waterfront

Prince George's County is set to see a significant boost in affordable housing as plans for a new development move forward. The community housing project will ultimately consist of 900 homes, catering to a diverse range of income levels. This includes luxury penthouses as well as 70 apartments specifically designed for elderly and disabled residents, developed in partnership with a nonprofit organization.

A key aspect of this initiative is the city's inclusionary zoning ordinance, which mandates that 25% of the homes in this development will be permanently affordable. This ordinance aims to ensure that even in desirable locations, such as the waterfront, affordable housing remains accessible. The city implemented this strategy in the 1990s when available land for development was limited, making it crucial to leverage post-industrial sites for new housing opportunities.

Currently, the development is nearing the halfway mark, although progress has been slower than anticipated. City officials emphasized the importance of inclusionary zoning as a tool for creating affordable housing, with discussions indicating that a new study on its feasibility in the county is underway. This study aims to reassess the economic conditions that previously hindered the implementation of inclusionary zoning in the area.

The meeting also highlighted the need for flexibility in housing strategies, acknowledging that not all tools work universally across different markets. Officials discussed the potential for negotiated agreements with developers to include affordable housing in larger projects, emphasizing the importance of community benefits in development negotiations.

As the county moves forward with these housing initiatives, the focus remains on creating a balanced community that meets the needs of all residents, ensuring that affordable options are available alongside market-rate housing. The outcomes of the upcoming study on inclusionary zoning could further shape the county's approach to housing in the future, reinforcing the commitment to addressing the affordable housing crisis.