The KCRAR Public Policy Committee has released a new Model Infrastructure and Housing Capacity Resolution in an effort to help cities and counties better connect infrastructure planning with housing and economic growth.
The resolution recognizes that housing production depends not only on zoning and available land, but also on adequate water, wastewater, stormwater, transportation and electric infrastructure. As communities across the Kansas City region face housing shortages, aging infrastructure and increasing service demands, the resolution encourages local governments to view infrastructure as a long-term investment that supports housing opportunity, economic development, public safety and neighborhood stability.
Among its key provisions, the resolution encourages communities to prioritize infrastructure projects that expand housing capacity, support redevelopment and infill and remove barriers to new residential construction. It also promotes fair infrastructure cost allocation by supporting policies that require large-scale utility users, such as data centers, to pay an appropriate share of the costs associated with their demand while helping protect residential and small-business ratepayers.
The model policy further encourages local governments to pursue a broad range of infrastructure funding options, including state and federal grants, bonds, special districts, public-private partnerships and other financing tools. It also highlights the importance of regional cooperation among local governments, utilities and planning organizations to address shared infrastructure challenges and support sustainable growth.
By formally linking infrastructure capacity and housing production, the resolution aims to provide local leaders with a practical framework for planning investments that can support future housing opportunities, economic competitiveness and long-term community prosperity.
