Do Land Use Plans Affirmatively Further Fair Housing? Measuring Progress
Overview
This study evaluates the effectiveness of local government land use policies in promoting inclusive neighborhoods by introducing a novel Fair Housing Land Use Score (FHLUS). The research explores how zoning and housing plans influence patterns of segregation and assesses whether these policies are contributing to fair housing goals.
Key Findings
- Exacerbating Segregation: The study found that current zoning and housing plans often worsen rather than alleviate patterns of segregation, highlighting a significant challenge in achieving fair housing objectives.
- Fair Housing Land Use Score (FHLUS): The FHLUS was developed as a more accurate measure of inclusivity in land use policies compared to existing methods. It offers a nuanced tool for assessing the progress of municipalities in fostering inclusive communities.
- Municipal Homogeneity: The effectiveness of the FHLUS varies, showing less utility in smaller, more homogenous jurisdictions where diverse housing needs are less prevalent.
Implications for Policy and Practice
The study suggests incorporating the FHLUS into fair housing analysis tools to improve the evaluation and guidance of local zoning and investment decisions. This approach aims to advance more equitable housing outcomes and ensure that land use policies actively support fair housing initiatives.