Even More Solutions For Backyard Homes

Cities everywhere are exploring solutions to the affordable housing crisis, and one idea is taking many forms: adding another unit to a single-family home.

In this episode of the Next City podcast, in partnership with Shelterforce, we journey from the Bay Area to Durham, North Carolina as we explore iterations of accessory dwelling units. These are smaller homes added to the main home, or built next to it. Essentially, ADUs add apartments without apartment buildings. And they’re usually less pricey to rent — while providing homeowners with new cash flow.

The episode is based on our webinar “Taking the ADU Model to the Next Level,” and it features Harold Simon of Essex Community Land Trust, Sherry Taylor of Durham Community Land Trustees, Nikki Beasley and Domanic Green of Richmond Neighborhood Housing Services, who discuss the combination of ADUs and land trusts as a solution to the problem of affordable housing in cities. Each program shares the same intention — to include the community in planning and to create more affordable homes for rent.

To learn more about combining ADUs with a land trust or supportive services for homeowners, listen to this episode below or subscribe to Next City’s podcast on Apple, Spotify or Goodpods.

A Letter From Our Executive Director

Imagine a world where every voice is heard and where every community thrives. This world isn’t just a dream; it’s a possibility, a reality that you, as an integral part of Next City’s network of city-builders, help to create.

But, let’s face it—the journey isn’t easy. You know too well the adversaries we face together: entrenched bureaucracies, outdated systems, and societal structures designed to divide and diminish. These challenges are real, and they can sometimes make you feel isolated in your pursuit of a better world. Yet, you persist, fueled by the belief that change is not just possible but is happening right now.

That’s where Next City steps in. We are your ally. Our stories aren’t just stories—they are affirmations that change is underway. Our articles, webinars, podcast episodes and ebooks provide you with inspiration, but also with the insights and information necessary to fuel change that brings about more equitable and inclusive communities.

And now, more than ever, we need your support. The status quo ought no longer be acceptable. Next City has continuously published for 20 years, and for even longer, our leaders have said we must be impatient for change. Today, in everything from our politics to our climate, I believe we are at a pivotal moment when action in cities cannot be desired but required.

As a Next City reader, you are already taking responsibility. You recognize that the systems you are part of matter, and you are committed to making a difference. There are 45,000 of you subscribed to Next City’s newsletters, 175,000 following us on social media, and over 1 million people visit nextcity.org each year. Each has a different capacity to give, but every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

By donating to Next City, you are not only supporting our mission but also breaking down barriers and challenging norms. Your contribution is a powerful tool that enables our journalists to continue unearthing and sharing the stories that catalyze change and remind us all of what’s possible when we come together.

So, we invite you to take this step with us. Use the button below to make a contribution to Next City today, and be part of a collective effort to build a just, inclusive and sustainable future for all. Your donation today is more than just a gift—it’s a commitment to a future we all believe in.

With gratitude,
Lucas Grindley
Executive Director, Next City

Donate

Like what you’re reading? Get a browser notification whenever we post a new story. You’re signed-up for browser notifications of new stories. No longer want to be notified? Unsubscribe.