Transforming California: How the Affordable Housing and Climate Program is Benefiting Communities and Protecting the Environment

A new report from the California Housing Partnership and Enterprise Community Partners highlights the Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities (AHSC) program as a key way California tackles its housing crisis while also addressing climate issues.

Since its start in 2014, the AHSC program has invested $4 billion in 209 projects that blend housing with transportation options. These developments have led to more than 20,000 affordable homes and are expected to benefit around 280,000 households. Beyond just providing homes, the program is helping the environment by encouraging public transport and reducing the need for cars.

According to the report, AHSC projects will help lower greenhouse gas emissions by over 5.7 million metric tons by connecting residents to services and opportunities within walking distance or through transit. This is essential as California tries to combine affordable housing with climate resilience efforts.

Notably, 65% of these projects are in or help disadvantaged communities, areas that face greater environmental and economic challenges. The report emphasizes that at least half of AHSC funding must go to these communities.

The economic benefits are significant too. The program has supported nearly 47,000 jobs during construction, generating $4.7 billion in wages and local business income. Additionally, AHSC projects have contributed $1.8 billion in taxes. For families living in these affordable homes, the average savings on rent is over $10,500 each year compared to market prices.

Transportation improvements have been substantial. AHSC projects have reduced vehicle miles traveled by 512 million annually, equivalent to taking over 41,000 cars off the road. This reduction plays a vital role in improving air quality, particularly for communities burdened by pollution.

The program has also funded enhancements to biking and walking infrastructure, with over 1,500 miles of bike lanes and pedestrian paths and the addition of nearly 1,000 new zero-emission transit vehicles.

Unfortunately, low-income and minority communities still face greater health risks from pollution. The report points out that these groups often experience high levels of air pollution, which impacts their health.

Several standout projects illustrate the program’s impact:

• Parkview Place in Los Angeles added 126 affordable homes and improved transit options, forecasted to cut emissions by 15,000 metric tons.
• Westview Village III in Ventura replaced outdated housing with 105 new homes designed to lower emissions by nearly 18,000 metric tons.
• The Arcata 30th Street Commons, the first AHSC-funded development by a tribal community, combines new housing with biking pathways that honor the Yurok Tribe’s values.

These examples show how AHSC integrates housing with transportation and environmental justice, making communities stronger and better connected.

A key takeaway is that the AHSC program pushes California toward a future of more sustainable and equitable development by putting affordable housing near transit and services. This approach not only fosters responsible growth but also shifts the state’s development patterns.

With over $545 million allocated for 2024, the AHSC program remains a crucial part of California’s response to its housing and climate challenges. The report encourages ongoing investment, suggesting that the AHSC model could inspire similar efforts in other regions.

In summary, the AHSC program is about more than just building homes. It aims to create healthier, connected communities while addressing climate change. As California moves forward, this program serves as a promising strategy for systemic change at the crossroad of housing, transport, and environmental action.

For further details, you can check the original work from the California Housing Partnership and Enterprise Community Partners here.

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