Rhode Island Investment in Long-Term Affordable Homes
Given the importance of the value of residential construction, the investments made into the state’s long-term affordable homes is even more apparent. As detailed in the State’s 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan, during the first Program Year (PY), the state anticipates nearly $11M of Federal investment as well as an additional input of $6.4M of state funds toward the creation and rehabilitation/mediation of nearly 1,100 long-term affordable and healthy homes.

Despite the economic importance of the development of these homes, the state’s per capita investment falls far short of most of our New England neighbors. Four of our five New England states have permanent funding streams for per capita investment in long-term affordable homes that range from $18.03 (ME) to $99.72 (MA). Not only does Rhode Island lack a permanent funding stream for affordable homes, the current level of investment from bonds and smaller state programs financed by Rhode Island Housing measure only $8.26 per capita.
Recovery from the Recession

Rhode Island has made substantial gains since the Great Recession that began in 2007-2008. However, while the overall unemployment rate of 4.9% at the close of Q4 2016 has recovered to pre-recession levels, there are still weak spots within demographic groups, where the rates for youth under 19 and 24 are triple and double the overall rate. Similarly, foreclosures have decreased 45% and seriously delinquent loans have fallen 57% from their highs in 2009. Yet, in 2016, foreclosures were 32% higher than 2015, and the rate for seriously delinquent loans is still ninth highest in the U.S., which is more than double pre-recession rates.