Introduction

The goal of Building Better Neighborhoods is to foster the creation of safe, decent and affordable housing within cohesive, well-planned and economically balanced neighborhoods. But developing such neighborhoods and creating more livable communities takes extra attention and thoughtful planning. Building Better Neighborhoods provides many important tools to help guide the creation of affordable housing, better neighborhoods and balanced community growth throughout Greater Minnesota.

The housing crisis facing small cities and towns is a severe problem for working families and entire communities. But as communities work to meet their affordable housing demands, there are great opportunities that should not be ignored. Planning new residential development offers the chance to define a larger vision for the growth of a community. Rather than merely construction vast subdivisions, cities and towns can design new residential developments to enhance the character of the community; to improve connections between neighborhoods, public amenities and institutions; and to include a mix of housing types addressing the full range of local housing needs.

Greater Minnesota Housing Fund believes creating more affordable housing is an opportunity to manage growth as well as build more attractive places to live. The organization also recognizes housing patterns can either separate us or draw us together. For those reasons, Building Better Neighborhoods focuses on building attractive and affordable starter homes, planning compact and walkable neighborhoods and creating attractive public spaces.

Quick Link to BBN Materials

BBN Applications and Assistance Forms
BBN Project Profiles of Model Developments (.pdf)
Steps in the Development Process
GMHF's interactive Cost Reduction Calculator