YOUNGSTOWN — Constructing a better Mahoning Valley starts with rebuilding its approach to housing.

Presented Thursday, the Mahoning Valley Regional Housing Strategy offers an in-depth review on what is happening locally and how a collaborative, long-term effort benefits households and those looking at the Valley as a potential home.

Touting a cross-section collaborative approach, the plan works on local and regional levels.

“The strategy provides recommendations and early implementation steps that will build on the strengths we have, address our unique challenges and will help align efforts throughout the Mahoning Valley,” said Jim Kinnick, executive director of Eastgate Regional Council of Governments during a presentation Thursday at the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County on Wick Avenue.

Overseeing the project is the Eastgate Regional Council of Governments in partnership with the Youngstown / Warren Regional Chamber and The Youngstown Foundation. The Greater Ohio Policy Center developed the plan in conjunction with the Reinvestment Fund, a national financial group.

Among the regional recommendations:

● Create a housing consortium, formed by Eastgate.

* Start an emerging-developers training program.

* Coordinate adjustments in zoning.

* Offer downpayment assistance programs.

* Assemble available land proactively.

Local recommendations focus on the following:

* Protect existing housing stock and prevent decline.

* Enhance existing neighborhoods and support residents.

* Protect vulnerable populations.

* Lower barriers to development and redevelopment.

“The Mahoning Valley Regional Housing Strategy is a good start to address the housing issues impacting Trumbull and Mahoning counties,” Guy Coviello, Youngstown / Warren Regional Chamber president and CEO, said.

“We are eager to move forward and embrace the challenge to provide suitable, affordable and abundant housing for a growing workforce in the Mahoning Valley.”

Overseeing the project is the Eastgate Regional Council of Government in partnership with the Regional Chamber and The Youngstown Foundation. The Greater Ohio Policy Center and Reinvestment Fund.

“Our research indicates that private, public, and philanthropic partners are ready to roll up their sleeves and that the region has what is needed to strengthen and revitalize the area’s housing market,” said Alison Goebel, Greater Ohio Policy Center director.