Secretary Marcia L. Fudge, the head of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), traveled to Baton Rouge, La., to attend the Louisiana Housing Conference. The event, titled "Building Pathways, Partnership, and Possibilities for Affordable Housing," aimed to address the affordable housing crisis in the state.
During her Sept. 26 address at the conference, Secretary Fudge focused on the systemic issues related to affordable housing in the U.S., particularly in Southern states like Louisiana. She began by acknowledging local leaders and the conference's role in bringing together experts in the housing field. Fudge underscored the Biden Administration's commitment to reversing decades of community divestment and fostering economic growth.
Secretary Fudge highlighted the grim housing statistics in Louisiana, noting that for every 100 extremely low-income families in the state, there are only 39 available housing units. She also emphasized the connection between the state's affordable housing crisis and climate change, pointing out that natural disasters are becoming more frequent and severe.
To address the housing crisis, Secretary Fudge outlined a series of initiatives. HUD has allocated over $1 billion to state and local governments for long-term recovery efforts related to Hurricane Ida. Additionally, Lake Charles has been awarded a $40 million grant under the Choice Neighborhoods Program, which aims to revitalize decaying housing stock and create opportunities for residents.
Fudge also discussed the efforts to break down systemic barriers, such as outdated zoning laws, in order to promote affordable housing. The Administration is working on several programs, including changes in the calculation of student loan debt to help more people qualify for affordable housing financing.
In closing, Secretary Fudge called on the assembled leaders and experts to work together towards creating more opportunities for affordable housing and homeownership. She reiterated the joint commitment needed to build a more equitable housing landscape, stating, "Every day, HUD is focused on helping people access and stay in housing they can afford."
