City of Lincoln, Nebraska Affordable Housing Coordinated Action Plan

Introduction

The City of Lincoln, Nebraska Affordable Housing Coordinated Action Plan is a comprehensive strategy designed to address housing affordability challenges in the city. Lincoln, like many growing urban areas, faces rising housing costs, stagnant wages, and a shortage of affordable units—particularly for low- and moderate-income households. This plan outlines actionable steps to increase housing accessibility, promote equitable development, and ensure sustainable growth.

The plan was developed through collaboration between city officials, housing nonprofits, developers, and community stakeholders. It aligns with broader goals of economic stability, neighborhood revitalization, and inclusive growth. Key themes include expanding affordable housing supply, preserving existing affordable units, reducing barriers to development, and supporting vulnerable populations.

Key Challenges in Lincoln’s Housing Market

1. Rising Housing Costs

   • Home prices and rents in Lincoln have increased steadily, outpacing income growth.

   • Many residents are cost-burdened (spending more than 30% of income on housing), particularly renters.

2. Shortage of Affordable Units

   • There’s a significant gap in housing for households earning below 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI).

   • Older affordable units are being lost to redevelopment or disrepair.

3. Barriers to Development

   • Zoning restrictions, high construction costs, and limited funding slow affordable housing projects.

   • NIMBYism ("Not In My Backyard" opposition) can block new developments.

4. Special Needs & Vulnerable Populations

   • Seniors, people with disabilities, and homeless individuals face additional barriers to secure housing.

Goals & Strategies

The plan outlines five core goals, each with specific strategies:

1. Increase Affordable Housing Supply

• Incentivize Development: Offer tax abatements, density bonuses, and streamlined permitting for affordable projects.

• Public-Private Partnerships: Work with developers and nonprofits to fund mixed-income housing.

• Expand Funding: Leverage federal grants (like CDBG and HOME funds) and explore local funding mechanisms.

2. Preserve Existing Affordable Housing

• Rehabilitate Older Units: Provide grants or low-interest loans to landlords to maintain affordability.

• Prevent Displacement: Implement policies to protect tenants in gentrifying neighborhoods.

3. Reduce Regulatory Barriers

• Zoning Reforms: Allow more missing middle housing (duplexes, ADUs, townhomes) in single-family zones.

• Faster Approvals: Create an expedited review process for affordable housing projects.

4. Support Homelessness Prevention & Housing Stability

• Expand Rental Assistance: Increase vouchers and emergency aid for at-risk households.

• Housing First Initiatives: Prioritize permanent supportive housing for chronically homeless individuals.

5. Promote Equitable Access & Community Engagement

• Fair Housing Policies: Combat discrimination and ensure housing access for marginalized groups.

• Community Input: Involve residents in planning to address neighborhood-specific needs.

Implementation & Partnerships

The plan emphasizes collaboration across sectors:

• City Government: Leading policy changes, funding allocations, and oversight.

• Nonprofits & Advocates: Providing direct services (e.g., tenant counseling, homeless shelters).

• Developers & Builders: Constructing affordable units with city incentives.

• State/Federal Agencies: Securing additional funding (e.g., LIHTC tax credits).

A Housing Advisory Board will monitor progress and recommend adjustments.

Expected Outcomes

If fully implemented, the plan aims to:

• Create 1,000+ new affordable units in the next 5–10 years.

• Preserve 500+ existing affordable homes through rehabilitation.

• Reduce homelessness through targeted support programs.

• Lower cost burdens for low-income families.

Conclusion

Lincoln’s Affordable Housing Coordinated Action Plan is a pragmatic, community-driven approach to tackling housing insecurity. By balancing new construction, preservation, and policy reforms, the city hopes to ensure that all residents—regardless of income—can access safe, stable housing. Success will depend on sustained funding, political will, and ongoing engagement with affected communities.

The full plan includes detailed timelines, funding breakdowns, and metrics for tracking progress. For now, this summary captures the vision and key strategies moving forward.