Affordable housing is a path to a stronger New Jersey
Evesham Township's officials write that affordable housing should be viewed as a way to enhance the local economy, promote inclusivity, and strengthen community bonds.
Across the U.S., housing has become increasingly unaffordable for many hardworking people — particularly young families, seniors, and people with disabilities. In New Jersey, this crisis isn’t limited to a few towns, it affects every corner of our state.
As municipal leaders, we have a collective responsibility to address this challenge head-on. Affordable housing is not just a legal obligation under New Jersey law — it’s an opportunity to make the Garden State more inclusive, vibrant, and resilient. We want to change the narrative so that communities see affordable housing as an economic value, instead of a burden.
New Jersey’s Mount Laurel Doctrine, established through a series of landmark Supreme Court decisions, requires municipalities to provide their fair share of affordable housing. This framework ensures no town is exempt from contributing to housing solutions.
While affordable housing has presented challenges in Evesham in the past, under our current administration, we remain optimistic and focused on the future. We recognize the importance of addressing this issue and are committed to implementing innovative solutions.
In Evesham, we’ve chosen to explore creative options as one community. We view affordable housing as a catalyst for enhancing our local economy, promoting inclusivity and diversity, and strengthening the bonds that hold our community together.
» READ MORE: Fixing the affordable housing crisis must start with addressing poverty | Opinion
The housing crisis we face is staggering: New Jersey has an estimated shortage of more than 200,000 affordable homes. These aren’t just statistics — they represent families struggling to make ends meet, seniors desperate to remain in the neighborhoods they’ve called home for decades, and young professionals priced out of living where they work.
Addressing these challenges is not only the right thing to do but essential to ensuring the long-term growth and prosperity of our towns.
The economic benefits cannot be overstated.
In Evesham, proactive planning has been key to tackling this crisis. By identifying opportunities for affordable housing in underutilized commercial spaces and abandoned properties, we are breathing new life into struggling areas. Our goal has been to work with organizations that are willing to create affordable homes that are part of the fabric of our community, rather than on the outskirts of it.
Mixed-use developments with affordable housing options create walkable neighborhoods connected to public transportation, schools, parks, and jobs. These projects aren’t just about building homes — they’re about fostering thriving, interconnected communities that embody our values and prepare for future generations.
The economic benefits cannot be overstated. By creating housing for working families, we help local businesses attract and retain employees, driving increased spending and investment within our township. Affordable housing also promotes labor mobility, empowering individuals to access job opportunities that were once beyond their reach.
As we embrace these opportunities, it’s crucial to dispel persistent myths about affordable housing.
Research consistently shows that affordable housing does not lower property values or overburden community resources. Instead, it fosters neighborhood stability and improves the quality of life for all residents. We must ensure that every resident — regardless of income — has access to the opportunities and benefits that make our towns unique.
» READ MORE: I’m a real estate developer who supports affordable housing — and paying my fair share | Opinion
In March, Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation championed by legislative leadership, and our State Sen. Troy Singleton, to safeguard and strengthen the Mount Laurel Doctrine. The new law offers powerful tools, including financing options, redevelopment incentives, and zoning credits, that municipalities can leverage to meet their housing goals. These tools give us the ability to revitalize unused spaces, create welcoming homes, and bring people closer to the opportunities they deserve.
We urge our fellow municipal leaders across New Jersey to join us in embracing the opportunities that affordable housing presents.
Every town has the power to reimagine its approach to housing. By prioritizing affordable housing, municipalities can reduce economic inequalities, strengthen their local economic growth, and build more cohesive, sustainable communities.
Together, we can meet our housing obligations while preserving the unique character and historic value of our towns. This is our chance to show that New Jersey is a place where everyone can succeed and thrive.
Jackie Veasy is a lifelong resident of Evesham Township and is in her second term as mayor of Evesham. Heather Cooper is serving her second term on the Evesham Township Council.