Norfolk Faces Growing Housing Crisis, Impacts Local Workers and Community Services

At a recent Norfolk Economic Development Commission (EDC) meeting on April 11, Jocelyn Ayer, director of the Litchfield County Center for Housing Opportunity, discussed a major issue in the area: a lack of affordable housing. Ayer noted that many Norfolk workers commute long distances, with at least 94 individuals traveling 45 minutes or more to work. This long commute highlights the difficulties local workers face and affects the region's economic health.

Kate Briggs Johnson, president of the Foundation for Norfolk Housing, stressed the need to understand the housing requirements of local workers to aid business growth. The foundation has developed 12 affordable housing units and is currently constructing 10 more, although the demand still greatly exceeds the supply.

The shortage of affordable housing not only impacts workers but also affects the community. Lauren Valentino, principal of Botelle School, mentioned that the housing crisis is affecting local education. Families are struggling to afford living in Norfolk, which has led to low enrollment at the local elementary school and concerns about community involvement in essential services like the ambulance squad and fire department.

The meeting also included a discussion on conducting a housing survey to better understand these needs and challenges, but no final decision was made. The EDC plans to continue exploring solutions to the housing shortage.

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