EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Muskogee Comprehensive Housing Analysis consists of two primary segments. First, the Assessment of the Housing Ecosystem details the results of the significant data collection and community outreach efforts which generated an understanding of housing issues in Muskogee. Second, Projections + Strategies outlines the findings and recommendations that are based on the results of the Assessment.
General Findings 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Muskogee’s housing market is improving and offers opportunity in certain market segments. Muskogee has assets that could present a strong branding and marketing message. Muskogee is geographically positioned as an edge city of the Tulsa metro. Muskogee’s deteriorating housing stock destabilizes the market and offers inadequate choices for residents. Muskogee has a high portion of cost-burdened households and an undersupply of housing for the very poor. The development industry perceives risk in constructing or renovating housing in Muskogee. Muskogee’s stable population, large land area, and low density makes it difficult to keep up with infrastructure needs. Muskogee has challenges with its image, both internally and externally, which affect perceptions about the community and people's behavior.
Strategies and Prototypes The project team recommends a strategy that encourages a diversified blend of housing prototypes concentrated in specific neighborhood areas that exhibit high potential:
Housing Prototype Categories
Housing Prototype Sites
For prototype categories and sites, the project team recommends a set of policies and programs for the public sector to implement in support of preferred development patterns in these areas.
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Assemble suitable sites for development (landbank) Support the preparation of surveys to determine development suitability Partner with developers through agreements to develop publicly-held land Improve public amenities and infrastructure with an emphasis on prototype sites Waive fees for development in prototype sites Provide capital or assist with financing for qualified projects Diversify housing units across market segments Develop branding and messaging promoting Muskogee as a place to live Create incentives for potential residents directly or through participation of employers