Statement on Building Up Illinois Developments (BUILD) from Housing Organizations
February 19, 2026
Housing Action Illinois Press Release
For Immediate Release: February 19, 2026
Contact: Kristin Ginger, Director of Communications & Development, Housing Action Illinois, kristin@housingactionil.org or 312-854-3333
Housing affordability and supply are not isolated local concerns. They are statewide economic and civic challenges that require coordinated action. Across Illinois, people and communities are grappling with rising housing costs, constrained inventory, and regulatory frameworks that can slow or discourage new development. These pressures hinder our workforce growth, household stability, municipal capacity, and long-term economic competitiveness. These are not problems that can be solved on a community-by-community basis, and require clear expectations and standards across the state.
We appreciate Governor Pritzker and state lawmakers for helping jumpstart an important statewide conversation about housing priorities and investments. Their engagement has elevated the urgency of the issue and opened the door to practical solutions that can strengthen Illinois communities while supporting working families seeking stable, affordable housing options.
The Building Up Illinois Developments (BUILD) legislative package represents a serious and necessary effort to create statewide alignment on our housing crisis. Establishing baseline statewide standards, enabling accessory dwelling units, setting reasonable parking requirements, and improving review timelines can help reduce unnecessary costs and delays while maintaining adequate local oversight and control. These types of reforms make it more feasible to produce housing that working Illinoisans can afford and that Illinois communities need to ensure the future economic vitality and competitiveness of our state.
Equally important, pairing regulatory improvements with targeted financial resources is critical. Strategic investments in proven financing and funding mechanisms — including capital support for housing production, assistance for first-time homebuyers, and infrastructure resources that unlock stalled projects — can help ensure policy changes translate into real housing opportunities across diverse communities.
No single proposal will fully resolve Illinois’ housing challenges, but continued collaboration and thoughtful investment can make meaningful progress. Some local communities have embraced proactive policies to increase housing supply, but nowhere near enough. This General Assembly session, the state legislature needs to advance policies and targeted funding that expand affordable housing supply, strengthen stability for tenants and homeowners, and support sustainable growth statewide. We urge the Illinois General Assembly to advance this legislation and continue strengthening Illinois’ capacity to deliver stable housing for households across the state.
Abundant Housing Illinois
Elevated Chicago
Housing Action Illinois
Illinois Housing Council
Impact for Equity
Metropolitan Planning Council
