Reprinted from Inside Indiana Business

Monday, August 2nd 2021, 12:21 PM EDT

Updated: Monday, August 2nd 2021, 1:27 PM EDT

By Mary Roberts, Writer/Reporter

Knox County Indiana Economic Development has completed a comprehensive housing study. The study analyzes current gaps in the local housing market and identifies potential sites that are ready to meet existing and future demand.

The organization says the study also aims to understand how the housing market can best support population growth to attract the needed workforce.

“This report confirms our belief that Knox County has demand for a variety of housing options that will appeal to the workforce required to grow the local economy,” says Chris Pfaff, chief executive officer of Knox County Indiana Economic Development.

Key takeaways from the study include the housing stock within Knox County is aged, with 91% built prior to 1990, and the shrinking inventory of for-sale housing has increased market competitiveness and driven housing prices up.

The analysis supports a housing development strategy for Knox County that aims to improve the economic
competitiveness of the area as well as support business attraction and resident retention.

The report shows that a “significant market of potential new residents” exists within a 60-minute drive of the county.

“Knox County stakeholders are motivated to tackle the housing challenges in the area. Significant collaboration, both regionally and at the county level, shows dedication to implementation with the tools and strategies outlined in the study,” says Lindsay Bloos, a consultant from Thomas P. Miller & Associates who led the study.

The study was conducted in partnership with Good Samaritan Hospital, Vincennes University, Vincennes Redevelopment Commission, the city of Vincennes, and Knox County.