Tue Sep 10 17:22:00 UTC 2024: ## Vermont Faces Growing Housing Crisis: Report Highlights Shortage and Affordability Gap

**MONTPELIER, VT** – A new report by the Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) highlights a worsening housing crisis in the state. The Vermont 2025-2029 Statewide Housing Needs Assessment, released this week, reveals a persistent shortage and widening affordability gap, putting strain on Vermont residents.

Governor Phil Scott emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that “Vermont’s affordability crisis is directly tied to a lack of housing.” He added that the state’s economy, healthcare, education, and overall quality of life depend on addressing the housing shortage.

The report, completed by the Vermont Housing Financing Agency (VHFA), identifies a pressing need for at least 24,000 new housing units across the state over the next five years. The report, along with the upcoming Fair Housing Analysis, will inform the state’s Consolidated Plan for federal funding.

DHCD Commissioner Alex Farrell stressed the need for collaboration: “Taxpayers dollars alone is not enough to build at least 24,000 units in the next five years, so we need to work with our public and private sector partners to accelerate unit generation in every corner of the state.”

The full report can be accessed on the DHCD website: https://accd.vermont.gov/housing/plans-data-rules/needs-assessment.

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