Mayor Regina Romero joined U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) officials in announcing Tucson’s successful $11.5 million Preservation and Reinvestment Initiatives for Community Enhancement (PRICE) grant.
This competitive funding aims to preserve affordable manufactured housing and invest in energy-efficient improvements to benefit Tucson families.
Affordable Housing Preservation Gains Momentum
In 2021, Tucson adopted the Housing Affordability Strategy for Tucson (HAST), prioritizing manufactured housing as a vital affordable option.
Recognizing that manufactured housing comprises 10% of Tucson’s housing stock—more than double the average in other Western U.S. cities—the city committed to preserving this essential resource.
The PRICE grant positions Tucson to address critical housing challenges, with a focus on improving the quality and resilience of mobile homes, which often house low- to moderate-income residents.
Funding Allocation and Objectives
HUD’s $11.5 million grant will support several targeted initiatives:
1. Resident-Owned Communities
Residents of a local mobile home park will receive gap financing and technical support to acquire and manage the park as a cooperative. This approach encourages shared governance and long-term stability.
2. Housing Rehabilitation and Replacement
The grant will facilitate the replacement of aging, unsafe manufactured homes in areas like Thrive in the 05 (85705), Flowing Wells, Benson Highway, and South Mission Road. These improvements will enhance safety and energy efficiency for residents.
3. Eviction Prevention
Emergency eviction prevention and legal aid will be available to Pima County residents, aiming to reduce displacement from leased manufactured housing lots.
Local Leaders Emphasize Impact
“This $11.5 million HUD grant will create lasting housing affordability in communities most vulnerable to displacement,”
said Mayor Regina Romero. She highlighted the dual benefits of housing security and energy savings, adding,
“Tucson is one of the fastest warming cities in the country, and weatherization investments will bring relief to families facing high utility costs.”
Ann Chanecka, Tucson’s Housing and Community Development Director, called manufactured homes a
“critical component” of the city’s housing supply.
“Without safe and adequate manufactured homes, many families could face homelessness,” she noted.
Collaborative Efforts Drive Success
Tucson’s achievement was made possible through strong partnerships with organizations like the Pima County Department of Community and Workforce Development, Resident Owned Communities USA, and the University of Arizona.
These collaborations ensured a competitive application and a clear path for implementing the grant.
Why It Matters
Manufactured homes represent an overlooked yet vital piece of Tucson’s housing puzzle. According to a University of Arizona study, 35% of Pima County’s manufactured homes were built before 1976, often with hazardous materials and poor insulation.
By addressing these deficiencies, Tucson is setting a precedent for sustainable, affordable housing solutions.
A Visual Look at the Grant’s Impact
Initiative |
Target Area |
Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Resident-Owned Communities | Local mobile home park | Stability through cooperative ownership |
| Rehabilitation & Replacement | Thrive in the 05, Flowing Wells | Safer, energy-efficient homes |
| Eviction Prevention | Pima County | Reduced displacement and housing insecurity |
Tucson’s HUD grant underscores the city’s commitment to equitable housing and climate resilience, ensuring that vulnerable residents have safe, affordable places to call home. As the city implements these initiatives, it sets an inspiring example for communities nationwide.
Sources: THX News & City of Tucson.
