Housing and Infrastructure

Housing is critical infrastructure—as essential to communities as roads and bridges. Like those physical assets, affordable housing provides long-term stability and improves quality of life for millions of Americans. Public housing alone serves over 2.2 million people across 1.2 million units, including 800,000 children and a majority of elderly and disabled residents. Yet the U.S. faces a significant housing shortage, with estimates indicating approximately 1.2 million additional housing units are needed to restore vacancy rates to historical norms.

Federal Housing Programs and Investment

The federal government supports housing through multiple programs targeting renters, homeowners, and communities. These include portable vouchers for use in the private market, project-based rental assistance in designated buildings, and direct subsidies for public housing. Major legislative efforts propose historic investments in public housing capital repairs, creation of affordable rental homes, homeownership expansion, and community revitalization. Programs also address climate resilience and energy efficiency in housing while prioritizing vulnerable populations.

Community Development and Housing Stability

Beyond direct housing assistance, the federal government invests in community development block grants that support neighborhood revitalization and help existing residents preserve home equity and avoid displacement. Housing stability infrastructure—including case management, financial counseling, and eviction prevention services—helps vulnerable families maintain stable housing long-term. These wraparound services break cycles of housing instability by connecting residents with workforce development, health services, and other critical resources.