Emphasis is placed on production, not ownership and management of public housing units. This policy direction acknowledges that, while the housing production system is market-driven, regulatory relief and financial assistance are needed for the market to address the needs of those with the least purchasing power. The most compelling reason for this orientation is that since World War II, Colorado has been a fast-growing state. With the rare exception, Colorado's annual growth rate consistently exceeds national rates. In practical terms, this demographic phenomenon means Colorado's housing supply lags behind the demand created by increasing numbers of new households.
Current conditions reflect the imbalances created by population growth.
Since the 1980s, the federal government has shifted resources from housing production to housing allowances for low-income renters. For the West, this policy decision is exacerbated by declining amounts of federal rental assistance.