Analyzing Affordable Housing in Vermont: Insights from a Non-Profit Housing Provider\u27s Portfolio using a GIS Assessment

Access to affordable housing is fundamental in creating stable, safe, and healthy families. The Housing Foundation Inc. (HFI) has the largest share of mobile home parks in Vermont along with a variety of apartments within their portfolio. As a non-profit affordable housing provider, HFI seeks to provide safe, affordable housing for low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. In partnership with HFI leadership, this case study assessed HFI’s existing property portfolio to better understand the connections to community services using GIS. Using data from Vermont Geodata Portal, I created maps for each individual property. Additionally, I analyzed connectivity to community resources, such as public transit routes, and identified “service sheds” to provide HFI leadership with a greater understanding of the various community agencies that serve their residents. Within the portfolio, 5 of the mobile home park communities lacked a public transit stop within a one-mile radius compared to 2 multi-family properties. HFI residents are represented by 147 state legislators by district. This GIS assessment provides the affordable housing provider with important information that can inform strategic planning and outreach activities. Increased access to vital community services, such as public transportation or regional offices, will increase the quality of life for vulnerable Vermonters