The result of a coordinated collaboration between branches of government and community partners, the Anchorage Health Department published the Municipality's application for the Housing & Urban Development (HUD) Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing (PRO) Grant for public comment today. Mayor Suzanne LaFrance and Assembly Members Anna Brawley and Vice Chair Meg Zaletel are optimistic about the opportunity and encourage the public to weigh in.
"We need all types of housing for all types of people, and we need it as soon as possible," said Mayor LaFrance. "Finding new ways to expand and upgrade housing while lowering costs is a key part of our strategy to ensure everyone who calls Anchorage home has a place to live."
As drafted, the application proposes a $7 million program to explore innovative, modular technologies for compact housing, leveraging federal funds to test prototypes in our northern winter city. Program partners include:
- University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) – Research on housing costs and innovative construction techniques, including structural insulated panels (SIPs);
- Anchorage Community Development Authority (ACDA) – Construction of housing units using the results of UAA research to reduce costs;
- Native Village of Eklutna – Construction of housing units using the results of UAA research to reduce costs;
- Anchorage Water & Wastewater Utility (AWWU) – Upgrade of water lines to properties recently rezoned for higher density;
- MOA Planning Department – Site-plan generation and public outreach;
- Anchorage Health Department – Project management and coordination.
“Our state's housing shortage crisis is characterized by the distinct conditions of this incredible place," said Assembly Vice Chair Zaletel, “including climate, seismic activity, and high construction costs, to name a few. With the commitment of our partners, Anchorage is uniquely positioned to explore innovative housing technologies and find solutions suitable for urban and rural northern communities alike."
Assembly Member Brawley added, “Building on the momentum of our housing action work, this application sends a strong message: We are ALL IN! From the team of municipal staff who produced this draft to the community members who will provide their feedback, our PRO Grant application is made stronger by the many voices who shape it."
Submit Public Testimony
Coordinated by the Anchorage Health Department, the public comment period on the draft grant application will be open for 15 days, until October 10, 2024. A public hearing will be held at 6:00 pm on Monday, October 7, 2024 at the Loussac Library Wilda Marston Theater.
Learn more about the PRO Grant application and provide testimony on the Anchorage Health Department website.
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Contact:
Amanda Moser | Office of the Mayor
907-615-7852
amanda.k.moser@anchorageak.gov