We examine local real estate markets and the unique mix of property and economic development components at the local level here at the ‘Are We Here Yet?’ podcast so our listeners can find inspiration for their own local efforts back home. 

This episode host Scott Graves sat down with Ed Bove, Executive Director of the Rutland Redevelopment Authority in Scott’s adoptive hometown of Rutland, VT.  Scott found resonance with Ed in their shared interest in incremental development and generally a ‘Strong Towns’ approach to neighborhood building.  

Listen to our interview with Strong Towns founder Charles Marohn from 2021. 

The discussion centered on how Rutland and the RRA are working to assist private developers to realize current Mayor Mike Doenges goal of 1000 units of housing in 5 years.  

Given Vermont’s past as an often development-resistant region, this may seem like a tall order.  There is little consensus on whether we need more housing at the broadest level, though municipal and state leadership understand there is a housing crisis affecting all of us, particularly working-class people in Vermont.

Additional housing needs range from the state’s number of 36,000 units, Vermont Futures Project estimate a bit higher and to those estimates by Knowledge Towns of 75,000 or more. 

Listen to our interview with Kevin Chu, Vermont Futures Project 

Listen to our interview with Dominic Endicott, co-author of Knowledge Towns

There is even more difference of opinion when it comes to what kind of housing and for whom it might be built for. 

Far from a complaint session, our discussion centered on the solutions being implemented through Ed and the RRA’s efforts along with other municipal players.  

Our conversation gave us an opportunity to discuss the efforts of Breaking Housing Matters, a national housing initiative working on a pilot in Rutland, VT.  

Listen to our interview with BHM founder Peter de Krassel

Ed’s thoughts immediately went to the innovative parts of BHM in creating new streams of development capital, an essential part of creating more interest in Rutland and the state of Vermont from emerging developers both local and from afar.

*Disclosure: Breaking Housing Matters is a client of SMGraves Associates, our parent company.