Tucson unanimously approves plan to help developers build more affordable housing [Video]

TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – Tucson is embarking on a new program to help finance more affordable housing in the city.

It’s called People, Communities and Home Investment Plan or P-CHIP.

Right now, according to estimates, Tucson is short 16,000 housing units which is causing higher demand and, of course, higher prices.

It’s not affordable.

The price of a home in Tucson has nearly doubled in the past seven years. Rent by nearly two-thirds. Wages have not kept pace.

“We’re looking for anyone interested in providing housing that is affordable in Tucson,” said Ann Chanecka, the Director of Housing and Community Development.

The council approved the plan unanimously at its meeting on Nov. 7 and it’s ready to take flight.

“And so next week ‚we anticipate releasing four RFPs, it’s our call for projects,” she said. “And in total, we have a little over $4 million.”

That $4 million is not a lot of cash for a program like this …