Affordable Housing

Understanding Affordable Housing in Ewing Township

-- Introduction
-- Background
   -- New Jersey
   -- Ewing Township
-- Resources
-- Ewing Township
    -- Municipal Housing Liaison
    -- Affordable Housing Administrative Agent
-- Ewing Rehabilitation Program
-- Mercer County
-- State of New Jersey
-- Comprehensive Plans, Resolutions, and Ordinances
-- Housing & Community Development Assistance Programs

What is "Affordable Housing"?

Affordable housing is not “free housing” or “Section 8.” It refers to homes that are affordable for working individuals and families — such as teachers, EMTs, young adults, or seniors on fixed incomes — who should not have to spend more than 30% of their income on housing costs.
These homes typically look like any other house or apartment in town. They are just priced at levels that make them accessible to people with moderate, low, or very low incomes.

The State of New Jersey has established income guidelines to qualify for affordable housing.  These income requirements are based on household size and vary from region to region. There are several categories, including very low, low, and moderate income, all defined as a percentage of the median income for the region.

State law states that each municipality has a “constitutional obligation to provide a realistic opportunity for the construction of low- and moderate-income housing in their communities.” They are required to develop and implement rental and sales programs that are equitable and fair.

Ewing offers the following types of affordable housing:

1. Rental units for those with low, very low, and moderate incomes,
2. For-sale, deed-restricted units, and
3. Group homes for developmentally disabled adults operated by nonprofit groups.

Who needs affordable housing?

Many people we all know:

• A young teacher just starting out 
• A senior citizen living on Social Security 
• A first responder or public works employee 
• A family juggling multiple jobs 
• A college graduate trying to stay in the community they love

Affordable housing helps ensure these community members can live in the same town they serve.

Why is Ewing required to provide it?

New Jersey law — under the Mount Laurel Doctrine and the Fair Housing Act — requires every municipality in a growth region to provide its “fair share” of affordable housing. This is a constitutional obligation.

If a town fails to comply, it may lose its ability to control local zoning. Courts can then allow developers to build at higher densities than normally permitted — known as a "builder’s remedy."

By planning responsibly, Ewing keeps local control and protects its long-term vision.

Why doesn’t the Township just say no to more development?

Because we can’t — and because it wouldn’t solve the issue. 
Refusing to plan for affordable housing invites lawsuits that could result in more development, not less — with fewer zoning protections. Responsible planning allows us to manage growth, preserve open space, and avoid overcrowding.

What is Ewing doing about it?

Ewing has adopted a court-approved Housing Element and Fair Share Plan that:

• Meets our legal obligations
• Protects us from “builder’s remedy” lawsuits
• Preserves community character
• Encourages thoughtful, inclusive growth

We’re doing this not only because the law requires it — but because it’s the right thing to do.

Does this change the character of our town?

Affordable housing is not out of place in Ewing. In fact, many such units already exist in neighborhoods throughout the township — and most people would never know the difference.

Supporting affordable housing reflects our community’s values: inclusion, opportunity, and a shared commitment to making Ewing a place where everyone can thrive.

The Bottom Line:

Affordable housing helps:

• Families stay together
• Seniors age in place
• Workers live near their jobs
• Young adults afford to stay in their hometown
• Towns keep control of development and zoning

Ewing Township believes everyone deserves a safe, decent place to live — and we’re committed to doing our part.