City of Austin Housing Affordability Fair Brings People and Programs Together for Impact

Austin, TX - The City of Austin is hosting a one-stop shop where residents can connect with existing housing resources and also weigh in on updates to programs that support housing affordability throughout the city. Austinites are invited to Conley-Guerrero Senior Activity Center at 808 Nile St, Austin, TX 78702 on Saturday, April 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This is a family-friendly event. Food, kids’ activities, and Spanish interpreters will be provided. Details available at SpeakUpAustin.org/HousingAffordabilityFair.
 
The Housing Affordability Fair will spotlight the City’s expansive set of programs designed to support Austinites through the challenges of increasing housing costs and maintaining financial stability. Attendees will be able to engage with Austin Housing staff and dozens of program partners about offerings ranging from home repair to rental assistance. Other initiatives designed to move the City forward in meeting our affordability goals include new projects like the Missing Middle and Mixed-Use Zoning Study, and updates to the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan, the SMART Housing program, the Austin Strategic Housing Blueprint, City code that sets requirements when certain housing is redeveloped (known as Chapter 4-18), and other tools the City is exploring.
 
“Affordable housing isn’t just about having a place to live – it's about creating stability, dignity, and opportunity.” said Deletta Dean, Austin Housing Director. “Events like this fair help bridge the gap by connecting residents with the guidance and support that make thriving communities possible. Meeting Austinites where they are with helpful resources is a priority for our teams.”
 
Additionally, Austin Planning will provide information and take community feedback on the proposed Citywide Density Bonus Program.  The Citywide Density Bonus Program is a possible new program that would allow for some types of properties in neighborhoods across the city to develop with modified standards when they provide income-restricted affordable housing in return. This project has been initiated by Council and also proposes to replace some existing programs going forward, such as Density Bonus 90 (DB90) and Vertical Mixed Use (VMU).
 
“Austin's growth brings both opportunity and responsibility, and the Citywide Density Bonus Program is one of the ways we're working to make sure that growth benefits everyone,” said Planning Director Lauren Middleton-Pratt. “We're eager to hear from residents at the fair and throughout this process, because your input shapes how we build a more affordable and inclusive Austin."
 
Community members can review the draft proposal for the project and provide feedback throughout the process.  City Council is expected to consider the proposal in May. For more information and to subscribe for updates on the Citywide Density Bonus Program, visit SpeakUpAustin.org/CitywideDB.
 
The Housing Affordability Fair is free and open to all Austin residents. Registration is encouraged but not required. Details at SpeakUpAustin.org/HousingAffordabilityFair.

About Austin Housing

Austin Housing creates and preserves housing opportunities to stabilize communities. To access affordable housing and community resources that help you, visit austintexas.gov/housing.
 
About Austin Planning

Austin Planning’s mission is to provide equitable, people-centered planning services and shape an Austin where everyone can thrive. By collaborating with residents, businesses, and public partners, we seek to develop and implement creative solutions that promote equitable development, environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, and economic prosperity. Learn more at austintexas.gov/austin-planning.