The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced the allocation of $100 million in grants to 18 recipients across 15 states. The funds are intended to reduce regulatory barriers, increase housing supply, and lower housing costs as part of the Biden-Harris Administration's efforts outlined in the Housing Supply Action Plan.
HUD Agency Head Adrianne Todman stated, "We need to build more homes to meet the needs of our growing communities – and we need to deploy every strategy available. The Biden-Harris Administration has been laser-focused on providing resources to local leaders to boost the supply of affordable housing."
The PRO Housing program aims to address restrictive land use policies, enhance housing strategies, invest in neighborhoods, and support new construction and repairs. Grants range from $1 million to $7 million for various entities including local governments and metropolitan planning organizations.
This marks the second round of funding under PRO Housing, following an initial $85 million awarded in July 2024. Common issues identified by applicants include high land costs, lack of available units, outdated infrastructure, and environmental risks.
Marion McFadden from HUD noted that recipients have shown a commitment to overcoming these challenges: “The communities that were awarded PRO Housing funding demonstrated a commitment to overcoming local barriers. These funds will accelerate critical investments in housing, housing enabling infrastructure, and regional strategies to meet community needs.”
The grants will assist winners like San Francisco ($7 million), Austin ($6.7 million), Cincinnati ($2 million), Detroit ($4.3 million), among others, in updating housing plans and policies while preserving existing affordable units.