by Robert L. Mitchell

"The agreement we are announcing today represents another example of how the public and private sectors can team together to help strengthen America's families and communities.

By committing to build one million new homes over the next 10 years, the home builders, the U.S. Conference of Mayors and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will create new opportunities for affordable homeownership and help a million families fulfill the dream of owning their own home — all of which will also help to revitalize and strengthen America's cities." — Vice President Al Gore, February 4, 1999

In the half century after World War II, several generations of American families sought to make their lives in the ever-expanding suburbs of this nation's great cities. For families and the housing industry, the land just beyond the cities represented the frontier — a place where homes were welcome and affordable.

Now, demographically different households are looking toward a different frontier: America's cities. Some are looking to cities again because of their proximity to jobs, shopping and urban amenities. Some are looking to cities because of the great energy, history and sense of place.

And some are looking to cities to escape the long commutes associated with suburban living. Regardless of the reason, it is clear that the market for urban housing is gaining momentum.

In recognition of this trend, and of the importance of revitalizing America's cities, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) in 1999 entered into a partnership with HUD and the U.S. Conference of Mayors, called "Building Homes in America's Cities."

Detroit's New Center area is the site of new infill housing adjacent to historic neighborhoods. Photo: National Association of Home Builders St. Ann's Common in Cincinnati has brought homeowners back from the suburbs. Photo: National Association of Home Builders   Click on thumbnail images to view full-size pictures.