Different housing needs across Washington County have been analyzed and solutions presented. A housing study was conducted in Washington, Kalona, Riverside, and Wellman. Amy Haase with RDG Planning and Design explained amenities like high-speed internet, parks, trails, and schools all play a vital role when people are decided where to live, “To be competitive in a highly competitive market, especially in this region where we’ve got a lot of jobs and we’re competing for all of those individuals who are trying to fill those jobs, that those quality of life pieces are just sometimes as important as having the house that they really want to move into.” The community survey, which about 300 people took, showed that people believe there’s a need for more housing for single professionals, young couples without children, and multigenerational families.

According to the study, the housing stock shows a need for more housing in Washington in the $150,000-200,00 and $200,000-300,000 ranges, as well as low-income housing. To support a 0.5% annual growth rate, Washington will need to produce 209 units in the next 10 years. Haase explained that there’s a need for affordable rentals with a quality product across the county. To address the needs, Haase suggested sharing development risks, expanding the variety of housing, implementing a revitalization program, leveraging existing lots and infrastructure, and then investing in the future.

RDG image of Washington