Rhode Island Gov. 100 Million for Housing 2024

100 Million bond for Rhode Island Housing

Rhode Island- In the State of the State address Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee pledged 100 million for a housing bond as requested by the Rhode Island Housing Secretary Stefan Pryor, this would be the largest in state history. Some say it's too much, others are saying it's not enough.
“These dollars will create more inventory and help put young people on a path to homeownership in our state,” McKee said. “ We know that homeownership is one of the top ways to build generational wealth.”

According to Robert Scaralia Director of Education at the Real Estate Institute of Rhode Island in a joint statement with REMAX 1st Choice said, this is good news for Rhode Island because the state is suffering from both a housing shortage and a affordability challenge.  One of the key areas to increase affordable housing in Rhode Island is through changes in local land use controls, mainly with changing the cities and towns requirements for minimum lot sizes. Too often the minimum lot square footage requirement is well above 8,000 square feet, when an 8000 square foot lot affords every homeowner a generous front and back yard.

Smaller residential lot sizes are a crucial solution to address the pressing issues of housing inventory and affordability. This not only maximizes land utilization but also facilitates the development of more affordable housing options. With a focus on efficiency and thoughtful planning, this approach empowers communities to accommodate more residents without compromising quality. In essence, embracing smaller residential lot sizes is a strategic move towards a more inclusive and accessible housing market, fostering sustainable growth and improved affordability for all who call or would like to call Rhode Island their home.

Real Estate Institute of Rhode Island