Sophie Zhang

What is affordable housing? What steps can Fairfax County take to ensure employees in “work, live, play” communities have affordable housing?

Started Apr. 25, 2024

Abstract or project description

This policy paper examines the current state of affordable housing in Fairfax County, VA, focusing on the programs and policies implemented to support the medium-low income group, specifically those earning between 50% and 80% of Fairfax County’s median income. This income group takes up a substantial portion of our population and sustain the employment in these “work, live, play” communities. Additionally, this income group is especially vulnerable as they are on the cusp of being in the low income category.

It’s current initiatives include ___. This paper highlights case studies from key areas such as the Mosaic District, Reston Town Center, Tysons Corner Center, and Springfield Town Center, all areas coined as “work, live, play” communities.

This paper reveals the realities where employees must travel long distances just to get to work as housing in these “employment hubs” are too expensive.

This paper proposes future solutions for Fairfax County’s affordable housing developments and strategies to implement on it’s current communities to ensure all residents can live in Fairfax County’s vibrant neighborhoods.