School of Planning and Public Affairs graduate students will partner with the City of West Branch to conduct a comprehensive housing needs assessment and develop informed recommendations for local housing policy and programming.

As West Branch experiences development pressures and demographic shifts, city leaders are seeking a clearer understanding of current and projected housing needs to guide decision-making. Students will analyze housing supply, demand, affordability, and demographic trends using a combination of quantitative data, stakeholder interviews, and community engagement. The project will also explore barriers to housing development, gaps in the existing housing stock, and opportunities to support a diverse range of housing types that meet the needs of residents across income levels and life stages.

Deliverables will include a detailed housing needs assessment report, a summary of community engagement findings, and a set of policy and programmatic recommendations tailored to West Branch’s unique context. Recommendations may address zoning and land use, incentives for affordable and workforce housing, rehabilitation strategies for existing housing, and partnerships with developers and nonprofit organizations.

This project provides students with real-world experience in housing analysis, rural planning, and community collaboration, while supporting West Branch in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable local housing future.