Affordable, accessible housing is a global issue that is fundamental to a healthy population and functional economy. In the United States, roughly 330 million urban households, or one­third of the total urban population, live in substandard housing or are financially strained by housing costs (MGI, 2014). For every 100 households of renters in the United States who earn “extremely low income” (30 percent of the median or less), there are only 31 affordable apartments available, which greatly limits housing options for this population (NLIHC, 2013).

The purpose of this research is to contextualize Saratoga Springs as a case study for finding sustainable solutions to housing problems commonly faced by cities that undergo urban renewal. Using archival research, we will investigate the implications of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) block grants and other government funding sources, and the specific challenges that Saratoga Springs faces as a city tasked with balancing accessibility while managing the reputation that the city has built. Through interviewing governmental leaders, community organizations, program stakeholders, and community members, we will gain an understanding of the obstacles that affect access to and development of affordable housing programs in the Saratoga Springs region.