Story perspectives

Minneapolis Targets Affordable Housing to Close Homeownership Gap

11/1/2025

Summary

Story summary

Minneapolis aims to maximize publicly owned land to boost housing production, especially affordable homes.
The plan seeks to reduce the white–Black homeownership gap, guided by the Way Home 2022–2024 progress toward the 2040 plan.
Initiatives include redeveloping the former Kmart site and modifying the 4d program to add affordable rental units.
Erik Hansen, the Department of Community Planning and Economic Development's new director, leads these efforts amid a construction slowdown.

History

Historical Context

The Fair Housing Act of 1968 emerged from a civil rights movement that sought to combat systemic housing discrimination, particularly against African Americans. Following its passage, Black homeownership increased from 41% in 1970 to 46% in 1980. Despite these gains, disparities persisted, prompting current initiatives in cities like Minneapolis to address the ongoing white–Black homeownership gap and promote equitable housing access.

1 of 2

Story summary

Minneapolis aims to maximize publicly owned land to boost housing production, especially affordable homes.
The plan seeks to reduce the white–Black homeownership gap, guided by the Way Home 2022–2024 progress toward the 2040 plan.
Initiatives include redeveloping the former Kmart site and modifying the 4d program to add affordable rental units.
Erik Hansen, the Department of Community Planning and Economic Development's new director, leads these efforts amid a construction slowdown.

1 / 2