In the early 20th century, a seemingly innocuous concept took root in American cities, shaping neighborhoods and inadvertently setting the stage for the current severe housing shortage: single-family zoning laws. These zoning laws, originally intended to organize urban expansion and uphold the suburban dream of idyllic homes with porches and backyards, have evolved into a double-edged sword, both protecting and limiting opportunities for homeownership.
At its core, zoning is a straightforward concept: designate specific areas for different types of development. Factories in one zone, apartment buildings in another, and single-family homes in yet another. These regulations offered protection and maintained property values, all while fostering the charm of classic neighborhoods.
However, as time went on, these laws started to reveal their darker side. Critics argue that single-family zoning perpetuated social and racial segregation, closed doors to potential homeowners, and resulted in artificial scarcity and skyrocketing prices.
CNN recently tackled this issue with an interesting article. To read this article, click here.
With concern over unavailable affordable housing in Puerto Rico, could building more ADUs or changing the zoning law alleviate the issue? What are your thoughts?