How might we accurately assess the needs and balance competing priorities of residents and other stakeholders in the community regarding the housing market?
Context
The current housing crisis in the City of Hamilton is having a far-reaching impact among the population across various socioeconomic status groups. Throughout the housing continuum, there are pinch points and bottle-neck effects being observed that hinder people’s ability to transition from one type of housing to another or to progress through the continuum to access the most suitable housing for their budget and needs. This challenge necessitates both short-term and long-term solutions to address the issue across the housing continuum in Hamilton.
Problem
The housing crisis in the City of Hamilton is fundamentally an issue of supply and demand caused by a great disparity between the two. It is a complex topic, however, concerning various parties and stakeholders, as well as different factors that led to the current housing landscape. Consequently, a multi-faceted approach to potential solutions is required. Many residents, communities, and organizations have opposing needs, making a linear solution unfeasible. Furthermore, solutions to the issue of housing require substantial funding and support from not just the government, but also resources from external stakeholders.
Goals
Conduct comprehensive research to gather all necessary knowledge, history, perspectives and context to adequately inform all aspects of the project
Engage all relevant stakeholders and community partners through extensive dialogue and discussions
Devise well-informed project plans and solutions that incorporate critical community perspectives and interests to effectively address the issue of housing
Develop feasible and sustainable solutions guided by principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) to inform the City’s housing strategy
Student Team: Kenneth Chen, Riya Patel, Eden Pang, Nivethinie Sivakumar, and Lesha Shah
Faculty & Course: CityLAB Semester in Residence, Dave Heidebrecht, Darina Vasek, Elizabeth Bang and Randy Kay
