Illinois Housing Push: $156 Million Plan Faces Legislative Hurdles
Gov. JB Pritzker announced funding for the BUILD initiative to address a 142,000-unit shortage, but local leaders warn the bill threatens neighborhood control.
By Amina Kaminski ·
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker announced a $156 million investment on Thursday to support the Building Up Illinois Developments, or BUILD, housing initiative. The funding targets the state's housing shortage and aims to improve affordability for residents.
The BUILD package includes legislative proposals designed to streamline approvals for affordable and missing middle housing. This category covers duplexes, triplexes, and accessory dwelling units. The plan also proposes statewide zoning requirements to reduce local authority. Similar legislation stalled during the spring session after city and village leaders raised objections.
Local officials who oppose the measure argue that state-level policies will preempt local control. They contend the changes will alter established neighborhoods.
The administration states Illinois is currently short approximately 142,000 housing units. Officials say the state must build more than 225,000 units over the next five years to meet growing demand. Kristin Faust, executive director of the Illinois Housing Development Authority, spoke in support of the initiative.
Pritzker cited low supply and high interest rates as key drivers for the plan. "We're doing this because we need more housing. Supply is too low and interest rates aren't coming down right now. Prices are too high and people and communities are feeling the pain," he said.
Most of the funding has already been secured in the state's 2027 budget. The plan is expected to face opposition during the upcoming November legislative session.
