Urban planning and design can play a critical role in addressing issues of housing affordability and homelessness by taking the following steps:
1. Increase the supply of affordable housing: Urban planning can help to increase the supply of affordable housing by setting targets for affordable housing, providing financial incentives for developers to build affordable housing and implementing inclusionary zoning policies, which require developers to set aside a portion of homes for low and moderate-income households.
2. Create mixed-use developments: Urban planning can encourage the creation of mixed-use developments, which integrate residential, commercial, and retail spaces. Mixed-use developments can help to create more affordable housing options by allowing developers to build affordable housing units alongside commercial and retail spaces.
3. Encourage transit-oriented development: Transit-oriented development can help to increase the supply of affordable housing by creating more housing options near public transport hubs. This makes it easier for low-income households to access affordable housing options and reduces the need for car ownership, which can be a significant financial burden for many low-income households.
4. Support homeless services: Urban planning can ensure that there are adequate services and facilities for homeless people by working with local governments and non-profit organizations to develop supportive housing, emergency shelters, and other housing services. These facilities should be located in areas accessible to public transit, healthcare, and other essential services.
5. Promote community-led initiatives: Urban planning can support community-led initiatives to address issues of housing affordability and homeless by providing communities with the resources and tools to create their own solutions. This could involve community-led housing developments or cooperative housing models, which allow low-income households to collectively own and manage their housing.
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