Support Housing Solutions

Be Part of the Housing Solution

Housing Next is West Michigan’s trusted regional partner for advancing housing solutions. We ensure that West Michigan is capable of producing an adequate supply of housing to serve the needs of the regional workforce through policy innovation, creative financing, technical support, public engagement, and regional collaboration.

Why It Matters

Our Approach

33,500 new homes are needed in Kent County by 2030.
An estimated 70,000+ new homes will be needed by 2050.
Workers, families, and businesses are feeling the strain and struggling to grow.
Without action, housing shortages will weaken our economy and our communities.

Unlock housing supply through zoning reform, smart incentives, creative financing, catalytic projects, and technical support.
Deliver real-time data through project tracking, dashboards, and updated Housing Needs Assessments.
Build momentum through regional collaboration, storytelling, and public engagement.
Measure public will through a Regional Housing Sentiment Survey.

2024 Successes

70,000+

The Kent County Corridor Strategy has identified opportunities for more than 70,000 new homes on existing infrastructure if local government is willing to modify regulatory codes.

56,000+

New housing units already enabled via local zoning changes championed by Housing Next.

13+

Counties involved in an established Regional Housing Partnership, aligning with the Right Place and the Urban League of West Michigan.

2025 Major Initiatives

Update Housing Needs Assessments for Kent and Ottawa Counties to guide local and regional action.
Launch a Regional Housing Dashboard to track production, identify gaps, and monitor progress.
Field a Regional Housing Sentiment Survey to measure public support for housing choices and inform local strategy.

Roll out the Neighbors of Kent & Ottawa County Storytelling Campaigns to build human connection and public will.
Host the West Michigan Housing Summit, convening and educating 500+ stakeholders capable of driving local action and change.