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Affordable Housing in Springfield's Westside: LIHTC Impact on a Growing Neighborhood
CATEGORY
Affordable Housing
DATA
LIHTC Projects
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Population
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Affordable Housing
LIHTC Projects
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Population
The Westside neighborhood in Springfield, Missouri, has a Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) funded affordable housing inventory of 55 units, with 45 designated as low-income units. This represents approximately 1.45% of the neighborhood's estimated 3,781 housing units, based on the 2022 population of 9,869.
The LIHTC program has invested $1,014,468 in tax credits in the Westside neighborhood, averaging about $18,445 per unit in LIHTC-funded projects. The neighborhood's affordable housing development spans from at least 2006 to 2013, indicating a sustained effort over at least a seven-year period.
The 2010s saw the most affordable housing activity, with Westport Park being the largest project, contributing 46 units. The available data shows a mix of housing options, including 2 one-bedroom units, 6 two-bedroom units, and 1 three-bedroom unit, primarily from the Craigmont Place project.
The Westside neighborhood experienced population growth from 8,317 in 2013 to 9,869 in 2022, an 18.7% increase. Median income rose from $33,683 in 2013 to $38,315 in 2022, a 13.8% increase. These trends suggest a growing demand for housing and a continued need for affordable options.
The racial composition of the neighborhood has remained relatively stable, with a slight decrease in the white population from 89% in 2013 to 85% in 2022. Small increases in the Black, Hispanic, and multiracial populations occurred during this period. This gradual diversification may influence future affordable housing needs and planning.
The Westside neighborhood's LIHTC-funded affordable housing inventory, developed over at least seven years, represents a small percentage of the estimated housing stock. The federal investment and mix of unit types demonstrate a commitment to addressing affordable housing needs. The neighborhood's growing population and moderate income levels suggest an ongoing need for affordable housing options. As the area continues to grow and diversify, monitoring how well the existing affordable housing inventory meets the evolving needs of the community will be important.
