The Case for Missing Middle Housing in Madison

Madison, Wisconsin, like many cities across the United States, is grappling with a housing crisis that affects residents across the socioeconomic spectrum. One promising solution lies in the development of “missing middle housing,” a term popularized by architect Daniel Parolek to describe a range of multi-unit or clustered housing types that are compatible in scale with single-family homes.

This type of housing can play a crucial role in addressing Madison’s housing needs, as highlighted by the Dane County Regional Housing Strategy and supported by insights from AARP.

Missing middle housing includes duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, bungalow courts, and other small-scale multifamily housing types. These housing options are designed to fit seamlessly into existing neighborhoods, providing more affordable and diverse living options without altering the character of the community. According to AARP, missing middle housing is essential for creating walkable, sustainable communities that cater to a variety of household types and income levels.

The Housing Crisis in Madison

The Dane County Regional Housing Strategy (RHS) outlines the severity of the housing crisis in Madison and the surrounding areas. The strategy highlights that there is a significant shortage of affordable housing, with many residents spending more than 30% of their income on housing costs. This situation is exacerbated by the limited availability of housing options that cater to middle-income families, young professionals, and older adults looking to downsize.

Benefits of Missing Middle Housing

1. Affordability: Missing middle housing can provide more affordable options compared to traditional single-family homes. By increasing the supply of housing, these types can help stabilize housing prices and make homeownership more attainable for middle-income families.

2. Increasing Options: These housing types offer a range of options that can accommodate different household sizes and compositions. This diversity is crucial for creating inclusive communities where people of all ages and backgrounds can find suitable housing.

3. Preserving Community: One of the key advantages of missing middle housing is that it can be integrated into existing neighborhoods without disrupting the architectural integrity of the house . This ensures that new developments are harmonious with the existing community fabric and helps preserve the community.

Challenges and Solutions

Despite its benefits, the implementation of missing middle housing faces several challenges. Zoning regulations often favor single-family homes, making it difficult to develop multi-unit housing. Additionally, there can be resistance from community members who fear that increased density will negatively impact their neighborhoods.

To overcome these challenges, the Dane County Regional Housing Strategy recommends several actions:

· Zoning Reforms: Updating zoning codes to allow for the development of missing middle housing in more areas.

· Community Engagement: Educating residents about the benefits of missing middle housing and involving them in the planning process to address concerns and build support. · Financial Incentives: Providing incentives for developers to build missing middle housing, such as tax breaks or grants.

Conclusion

Missing middle housing represents a vital component of the solution to Madison’s housing crisis. By diversifying the housing stock, promoting affordability, and maintaining community character, these housing types can help create a more inclusive and sustainable city. The insights from the Dane County Regional Housing Strategy and AARP underscore the importance of embracing this approach to meet the evolving needs of Madison’s residents.

Join the discussion around housing during Madison Housing Week, August 17-22. For more information visit www.madisonhousingweek.com.

AARP Wisconsin will host a Housing On Tap during Madison Housing Week

· Monday, August 19th
· 5:30 p.m.
· Vintage Brewing Co., 674 S. Whitney Way.
Click here to register