Regional Housing Strategy
We developed a countywide approach to creating and preserving affordable housing across Wisconsin's fastest-growing county.
SB Friedman led Dane County's Regional Housing Strategy, a multi-jurisdictional initiative to address the county's critical shortage of affordable and workforce housing. As both facilitator and technical lead, SB Friedman guided an 80-member Housing Advisory Committee (HAC) of public, nonprofit, and private-sector stakeholders through market analysis, community engagement, visioning and strategy development.
Work Completed
Analyzed housing inventory, trends, demographic shifts, and disparities in housing outcomes across racial and socioeconomic groups
Synthesized input from HAC participants, focus groups, and public surveys to understand housing challenges across geographies and identities
Identified current housing gaps and projected future housing needs through 2050 for the county overall and by municipality
Developed strategies to produce and preserve affordable housing, increase affordability, support tenants and renters, and educate on housing need
Results
The Regional Strategic Action Plan was finalized in December 2023 and launched in April 2024, with implementation guided by an Executive Committee and Regional Housing Leaders/Community group. Recent progress includes supporting municipalities in developing local housing action plans, launching a countywide educational campaign, hiring dedicated county housing staff, and increasing funding for affordable housing programs.
Impact
Our plan helped the wealthiest county in Wisconsin understand its residents’ needs and how to best prepare for the future.
55%
Projected Household & Housing Unit Growth
1,765
New Affordable Renter Units
3,000
Residents Reached
Testimonial
Olivia Parry, Dane County
“SB Friedman proved a strategic and thoughtful partner and leader. Our Housing Strategy has had tremendous results due to their detailed approach and clear path forward. I highly recommend them!”
