Integrating the Suburbs: Harnessing the Benefits of Mixed-Income Housing in Westchester County and Other Low-Poverty Areas

The opportunity for housing is the central goal of the Fair Housing Act. This can be enhanced through the creation of mixed-income housing developments, which increase the opportunity for integration and benefit those moving to a community, as well as those already there. In New Jersey, the decision in Southern Burlington County NAACP v. Mt. Laurel and the State's Fair Housing Act have not provided sufficient mechanisms to spur the creation of integrated affordable housing or mixed-income developments. Due to a recent housing settlement, Westchester County has the chance to integrate its low-poverty municipalities through mixed-income housing. To realize this opportunity, Westchester, and other counties and municipalities throughout the country, should enact legislation incentivizing mixed-income housing developments. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]