Smart Economic Development & Housing

Lynchburg has a woefully inadequate supply of affordable and "missing middle" workforce housing. The city currently relies heavily on nonprofits to solve housing issues while maintaining bureaucratic hurdles that stifle small-scale developers.

Zoning Reform & "Missing Middle" Housing

Advocate for sensible zoning updates, such as creating an "R3+" designation to allow for 4-, 6-, and 8-pack multifamily housing units in appropriate zones. You should also push for removing the requirement that limits small developers by forcing 50% commercial space in low-demand B2-B5 districts.

Pre-Approved Building Plans

To cut through expensive and time-consuming red tape, the city should offer a menu of pre-approved architectural plans for small infill homes and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) that match the historic character of Lynchburg. This allows small developers and property owners to bypass lengthy planning approvals and start building immediately.

Affordable Housing Trust Fund & Fee Waivers

Support the creation of a local housing trust fund to provide bridge capital or forgivable loans to first-time homebuyers and developers building affordable units. Furthermore, advocate for waiving municipal tap fees and zoning certification fees for nonprofit builders like Habitat for Humanity and Rush Homes.

Economic Development Incentive Grants

Rather than utilizing complex Tax Increment Financing (TIFs) that divert growth from the General Fund, use Economic Development Incentive Grants. Mirroring the successful revitalization of the Virginian Hotel, the city can agree to rebate a percentage of newly generated tax revenue back to developers who take on massive, high-risk historic projects (like the City Auditorium).

3.5% Cover the Fee

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