Building a Richmond for All: How Affordability Is Impacting Growth and the Future of Our City

Better Housing Coalition President and CEO Greta Harris recently joined regional leaders at the Richmond Multifamily Summit hosted by Bisnow for a powerful conversation titled Building a Richmond for All: How Affordability Is Impacting the Growth and Future of Richmond.

The session brought together developers, policymakers, and community stakeholders to explore how affordable and attainable housing strategies are shaping Richmond’s economic development landscape. As the city continues to grow, housing affordability remains central to attracting businesses, supporting workforce stability, and ensuring that longtime residents are not left behind.

During the discussion, Harris emphasized that housing is not simply a real estate issue but an economic imperative. Stable, quality housing creates the foundation for strong neighborhoods, educational success, workforce participation, and long-term community health. She reinforced that intentional, mission-driven development is essential to building inclusive communities where growth benefits everyone.

Richmond stands at a pivotal moment. Strategic investment in mixed-income housing, preservation of existing affordable homes, and cross-sector collaboration will determine whether growth expands opportunity or deepens inequity. Harris highlighted the importance of aligning public policy, private capital, and community voice to ensure the region’s development reflects shared values and long-term vision.

Better Housing Coalition remains committed to advancing solutions that expand housing access while strengthening neighborhoods across the region. Participation in conversations like this reflects our continued leadership in shaping a Richmond where affordability fuels progress and every resident has a place to call home.

As we look ahead, we will continue engaging in regional forums that elevate housing as a cornerstone of economic vitality and community stability.