Missing Middle Housing: TL;DR. An event exploring what middle housing is and why we need it.

Wait – so you’re saying that you did NOT read the 150+ page report that came out just before the holidays? We feel you. And this event is for you. We want everyone to understand what is meant by the term middle housing – because it may not be what you expect. We also want to talk about why it would be a good thing for our community if we could get more of it.

Homes like duplexes, triplexes, granny flats, and townhomes are considered middle housing. Often called “missing middle housing”, these types of homes used to be common across Asheville and cities throughout the United States. However, due to the adoption and rise of exclusionary zoning policies designed to keep people of color and renters out, these home types – which are more naturally affordable – were banned from our communities. Today, our communities still feel the legacy of these exclusionary zoning rules, and most of the homes we build today are larger and more expensive as a result.

This event will include speakers representing different interests in our community – from environmentalists to housing advocates to older adults – addressing specifically what middle housing means for them. We’ll have plenty of visuals so you can see examples of middle housing types and maybe even see some homes you recognize. You’ll have opportunities to ask questions and also share with us your thoughts. Admission is free, we ask that you RSVP so that we can ensure we have space and seating for everyone.

We hope to see you there!

This event is Co-hosted by: MountainTrue and Neighbors for More Neighbors WNC, AARP NC Mountain Region, Asheville City Association of Educators, Asheville for All, Asheville Food and Beverage United, Asheville on Bikes, Buncombe County Association of Educators, East Fork Pottery, Just Economics, Mountain Housing Opportunities, Pisgah Legal Services, and Thrive Asheville.