Nonprofit developers say cost, siting chief barriers to affordable housing in Valley
By SCOTT MERZBACH
Published: 01-28-2025 4:36 PM
Modified: 01-29-2025 10:31 AM
AMHERST — Significant cost increases to build affordable housing across the region pose a major challenge, but streamlining zoning rules, soliciting state and federal support, and pursuing local assistance can lead to successful developments, according to leaders with regional nonprofit housing developers.
Even with several projects either under development or going through permitting in Amherst, Northampton, Easthampton, Hadley, South Hadley and Pelham, nonprofit developers cited significant obstacles to continuing to expand the region’s affordable housing stock during a two-hour “Buildings Homes and Breaking Barriers” forum Thursday at Town Hall.
