NLC launches tracker for 35 city-focused provisions in ROAD to Housing Act

The National League of Cities has launched a tracker to help cities follow 35 provisions in the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act that directly affect local governments. The initiatives cover changes to federal grant programs, reduced regulatory requirements and housing preservation measures.

Congress passed the wide-ranging bipartisan housing legislation in July. It contains more than 120 implementation actions, most of which fall under the responsibility of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, which has begun work on measures included in the law.

One of the most significant changes for local governments affects the Community Development Block Grant program. Under the law, grantees may direct up to 20% of their annual award toward affordable housing construction, according to the National League of Cities.

The legislation also expands eligibility for the HOME Investment Partnerships Program and provides additional flexibility for certain housing-related infrastructure investments. NLC said the law preserves local zoning authority and does not impose unfunded mandates on local governments.

“Passing the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act was a historic achievement, but the real measure of its success will be what happens in our communities,” NLC CEO and executive director Clarence Anthony said in a news release. He added that local leaders are prepared to use the legislation to increase housing availability and affordability.

Other organizations, including the National Association of Counties, the Bipartisan Policy Center and the National Association of Affordable Housing Lenders, have also created implementation trackers for the law.

NLC noted that several newly authorized programs will depend on future federal funding decisions, making continued coordination among local leaders, Congress and federal agencies important. Analysis by the National Association of Affordable Housing Lenders and the Center for Affordable Housing Lending indicates that local implementation of the legislation could take years.

Sources: Smart Cities Dive.