Erie County officials have announced the launch of the county’s first comprehensive housing plan in more than 15 years, aimed at addressing current and future housing needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities.
County Executive Brenton Davis said the Erie County Department of Planning and Community Development has been awarded a Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development Municipal Assistance Planning Grant to undertake the Countywide Comprehensive Housing Plan. The study will provide a data-driven analysis of housing supply, affordability, demographic trends, market conditions, and barriers to housing stability throughout the county.
The planning process will include engagement with residents, stakeholders, and service providers, with findings intended to guide strategies that expand housing options, support renovation efforts, and promote sustainable community development.
“This study represents an important opportunity for Erie County to take a comprehensive, coordinated approach to addressing the condition, affordability, availability, and gaps in the housing ecosystem,” said Jessica Horan, Director of the Department of Planning and Community Development.
Thomas P. Miller & Associates, LLC, a national consulting firm specializing in housing, economic development, and community planning, has been selected through a competitive request for proposals process to conduct the study. Final deliverables will include a countywide housing plan, an implementation roadmap, and a framework to track progress over time. The study will also identify potential funding sources and policy tools to support implementation.
“Erie County has a unique housing landscape shaped by demographic change, aging housing stock, and evolving workforce needs,” said Brett Wiler, Vice President of Economic Development at Thomas P. Miller & Associates. “A comprehensive housing strategy is essential to supporting workforce growth, neighborhood stability, and long-term economic competitiveness.”
The Comprehensive Housing Study is expected to be completed in 2026, with multiple opportunities for public input throughout the planning process.
