Affordability in Ann Arbor: Recommendations for Increasing Affordability, Livability, and Sustainability in Ann Arbor

Abstract

The Ann Arbor Housing Commission (AAHC) serves low-income individuals and families by providing housing and supportive services. The agency partners with housing and service providers to build healthy residential communities and promote an atmosphere of pride and responsibility. Housing affordability has become a critical issue in the City of Ann Arbor as the population of university students and high-income earners has soared over the years, driving up prices and housing demand. In 2019, the Ann Arbor City Council directed the AAHC to analyze the feasibility of using City-owned properties for affordable housing. In 2020, the Ann Arbor Housing Commission provided City Council with an analysis of 12 sites. The purpose of this report is to provide conceptual plans for the following three sites with recommendations that advance community values regarding mixed-income housing and sustainability: (1) 309 S. Ashley, (2) 415 W. Washington, and (3) 2000 S. Industrial.