Affordable Housing Master Plan

Introduction

The Affordable Housing Master Plan (AHMP) is an integral part of Arlington County’s Comprehensive Plan, adopted in 2015, to address housing affordability through 2040. Rooted in principles of inclusivity, sustainability, and diversity, the AHMP establishes goals, policies, and strategies to ensure housing availability for all income levels. It complements other County policies on land use, transportation, and economic development, aiming to create a vibrant, inclusive community.

County Vision and Affordable Housing

Arlington County envisions a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable urban community where affordable housing plays a crucial role in supporting economic and social sustainability. Affordable housing improves quality of life by enabling stability, supporting a diverse workforce, and enhancing community cohesion. However, the County faces challenges from rapidly escalating housing costs, which have significantly reduced the availability of affordable housing for low- and moderate-income households. Between 2000 and 2013, Arlington lost 13,500 affordable housing units due to rent increases and redevelopment.

Arlington’s legacy of addressing housing affordability includes landmark initiatives such as the Affordable Housing Investment Fund (AHIF), federal partnerships, and the preservation of committed affordable housing (CAF). However, market pressures continue to threaten affordability, necessitating public intervention.

Housing Needs Analysis

The AHMP highlights Arlington’s changing demographics and escalating housing costs as key factors driving housing challenges. Major findings include:

1. Demographic Trends:
   • The County has seen a surge in high-income households and a decline in low-income households.
   • Families with children and older adults represent growing segments of the population, with unique housing needs.
   • The County’s population is aging, with a 75% increase in older adult households projected by 2040.
2. Housing Affordability:
   • Over 50% of renters and homeowners face cost burdens, especially low-income and minority households.
   • The supply of affordable housing has declined dramatically. In 2013, there was a shortage of nearly 7,000 rental units affordable to households earning below 60% of the area median income (AMI).
3. Future Housing Needs:
   • By 2040, Arlington will need an additional 21,000 rental units, with 6,300 affordable to households earning below 60% AMI.
   • Larger, family-sized units are needed to accommodate growing households.
   • The County must address housing needs for persons with disabilities and the homeless through expanded supportive housing options.

Affordable Housing Policy

The Affordable Housing Master Plan (AHMP) organizes its policies around three broad goals:

1. Adequate Housing Supply:
   • Objectives: Increase affordable rental and ownership housing, preserve market-rate affordable housing (MARKs), and promote geographic distribution of affordable units.
   • Key Strategies: Use zoning policies, financial incentives, and partnerships to promote affordable housing production. Focus on transit corridors and long-term affordability commitments to preserve housing options for low-income households.
2. Access to Housing:
   • Objectives: Eliminate discrimination, support low-income households, and prevent homelessness.
   • Key Strategies: Provide rental assistance, address leasing barriers, and support homeownership programs for moderate-income households. The County emphasizes preventing displacement and enabling residents to remain in their communities.
3. Housing and Sustainability:
   • Objectives: Integrate housing goals with environmental sustainability and community infrastructure improvements.
   • Key Strategies: Promote energy-efficient building practices, reduce commuting through better housing-job proximity, and align affordable housing policies with broader sustainability goals.

Housing Master Plan – Implementation and Monitoring

The Affordable Housing Master Plan includes an Affordable Housing Implementation Framework to guide its execution through specific tools and strategies. Monitoring and evaluation are critical components, ensuring progress is tracked using measurable indicators. The plan undergoes periodic reviews to adapt to evolving housing needs and market conditions.

Conclusion

The Affordable Housing Master Plan is a forward-looking policy document designed to address Arlington’s housing challenges comprehensively. It underscores the County’s commitment to creating a community where all residents, regardless of income, can find safe, affordable housing. By integrating housing with broader economic, transportation, and environmental strategies, the AHMP serves as a blueprint for fostering inclusivity, equity, and sustainability in Arlington County.

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