Affordable housing continues to be a challenge for communities across the country. Construction costs continue to rise and developers are facing complicated funding and zoning restrictions, among other challenges. Access to housing is crucial for a healthy community, and the City of Duluth, Minnesota, is working to support people experiencing homelessness through several affordable housing projects.

Center City Housing Corporation, based in Duluth, develops affordable housing and offers a wide range of services for those looking to get back on their feet, such as help with finding a job, transportation, taking care of taxes and other paperwork, and support for alcoholism and other addiction. Its latest development in Duluth, Birchwood Apartments, provides permanent supportive housing for 30 adults struggling with homelessness and behavioral health issues.

To discuss how the City of Duluth and St. Louis County are working to develop more affordable and supportive housing, we are talking to Duluth Mayor Emily Larson, St. Louis County Commissioner Patrick Boyle, Center City Housing’s Executive Director Nancy Cashman, and Board President Pete Johnson.