Retooling HUD for a Catalytic Federal Government: A Report to Secretary Shaun Donovan

The transformation of HUD into a catalytic federal agency is essential for addressing the complex challenges facing American cities and metropolitan areas. The report advocates for several key strategies. HUD should play a central role in resolving the foreclosure crisis by supporting direct loan modifications, advocating for legislative changes, and utilizing its existing tools to stabilize housing markets and keep people in their homes. HUD must enhance its programs to provide and preserve affordable housing, focusing on multi-family housing production, improving housing opportunities for the "hard to house," and strengthening the Low Income Housing Tax Credit program. HUD should invest in neighborhoods impacted by foreclosures, support comprehensive neighborhood improvement programs, and lead efforts to create sustainable and vibrant communities through strategic investments and policies. HUD should lead the way in making housing more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable, investing in green housing initiatives that generate economic benefits and reduce carbon emissions. To achieve these goals, HUD must reinvigorate its internal capacity, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and strategic thinking. This includes improving its data and research capabilities, supporting inter-agency partnerships, and enhancing its role as a leader in urban development.