Kentucky Housing Shortage of 200,000 Units Impacts Economic Development

During a meeting of the Interim Joint Committee on Economic Development and Workforce Investment, officials from the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce provided testimony regarding housing challenges across the state. The chamber reported that the housing shortage is approximately 200,000 units, a situation the officials say threatens economic development. Committee Co-chair Sen. Phillip Wheeler questioned how the state can achieve balanced growth across the state, noting the issue affects the Golden Triangle.

The housing shortage is cited by the chamber as a factor that could impede business expansion in certain communities. The officials noted that some residents believe their communities cannot currently support business growth due to housing limitations. This issue is being discussed in the context of the state's overall economic development goals.