The Dallas Architecture Forum, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing public education about architecture, design and the urban environment, continues its Spring 2019 Panel Discussion Series with “Housing in Dallas: How Did We Get Here?,” moderated by Melanie Ferguson.

North Texas is one of the fastest growing areas in the United States. Since 2010 the population of North Texas has increased by over one million people, with the area estimated to currently have 7,500,000 residents. Though this growth in population has produced new jobs and opportunities, it has created severe challenges to providing affordable, available housing.

In the first half of this decade housing costs in the Dallas-Fort Worth area increased over 40 percent. Though the increase has moderated some in the last few years, the cost for both renting and purchasing a home in North Texas has become a major challenge for many area residents.

Panelists are recognized housing experts: Myriam Igoufe, Director of Housing Services, Dallas Housing Authority; Maggie Parker, Director, The Real Estate Council Community Fund; and Thomas Simpson, Senior Analyst, HR&A Advisors

The speakers for this panel have first-hand knowledge in the identification of housing needs, the availability of public funds and the creation of public/private partnerships to provide appropriate housing for everyone in Dallas. Panel attendees will gain greater understanding of the historical context of housing in Dallas, and will learn about the key elements of the housing plan adopted last year by the City of Dallas.

They will also learn about the plans and potential issues involved in providing more affordable housing in the face of rapid economic growth in North Texas. Attendees will be able to ask questions and engage in conversation with our Panelists and Moderator, each of them subject matter experts on Housing.