UF planning students featured in Florida APA Newsletter

University of Florida Urban and Regional Planning students Erin Fowler and Ian Siljestrom had works published in Florida APA’s Affordable Housing Fall Newsletter.

Fowler’s work highlighted the ongoing struggles with climate gentrification in places like Little Haiti, Miami, FL. As sea levels rise, data shows that real estate at higher elevations is increasing in value. Part of this is due to wealthier people moving from areas at risk of flooding due to sea level rise to inland areas that were traditionally less valuable and are therefore home to lower income populations. Erin’s research is available on page 18 of the Affordable Housing Newsletter. 

Affordable housing and homelessness affects many people in different ways. Ian Siljestrom’s research outlines recommendations for homeless youth shelters to reflect on their policies and ensure that each center is inclusive and serves LGTBQ+ youth, a group that is 120% more likely to experience homelessness just for living authentically.

Siljestrom also has research with Bob Cambric on the need for affordable housing for LGBTQ Seniors. According to Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders (SAGE), 48% of same-sex couples face discrimination when looking for housing and 34% of LGBTQ Seniors hide their identity when looking for affordable senior housing due to fears of discrimination. Ian’s research is available on pages 16 and 17 in the Affordable Housing Newsletter.