Our Northern Virginia reporter explores why it is so difficult to produce and preserve affordable housing in the region,  and the role that private developers — particularly nonprofits — play in helping localities provide sufficient housing for all residents. Much of this reporting was produced as part of a fellowship supported by the Lilly Endowment and administered by the Chronicle of Philanthropy to expand coverage of philanthropy and nonprofits. WAMU/DCist is solely responsible for all content.

In This Series

May 23, 2022, 11:53 am

Northern Virginia’s Progress On Affordable Housing? It’s Mixed

While several localities are hitting housing targets, the region is struggling to build and preserve affordable housing for particularly low-income people.

May 23, 2022, 11:53 am

As Public Scrutiny Wanes, Improvements Stall At This Arlington Housing Complex, Tenants And Advocates Say

Tenants and advocates at the Serrano Apartments began speaking out about rodent infestations, mold, and other poor conditions in 2019.

May 23, 2022, 11:53 am

One Nonprofit Housing Provider’s Dangerous Living Conditions Revealed A Systemic Lack Of Oversight In Arlington County

The county depends on — and financially supports — a handful of nonprofits and for-profit companies to provide its affordable housing. But it has few tools to hold them accountable.