Dear Editor,
Juneau is facing one of the most serious housing shortages in Alaska, and it affects nearly everyone in our community, from young workers to families and even long-time residents. The high cost of rent and limited availability of affordable units makes it harder for people to stay in Juneau or even consider moving here for work. According to the Alaska Department of Labor, Juneau’s rental vacancy rate has been one of the lowest in the state, which drives prices up and makes competition for housing extremely difficult (Alaska DOLWD, 2024).
More affordable housing options are urgently needed, including mixed-income developments, renovated older units, and incentives for builders to create long-term rentals instead of short-term listings. A 2023 report from the City and Borough of Juneau states that expanding housing supply is one of the most important steps for stabilizing the local economy and supporting workforce retention (CBJ Housing Report, 2023).
I encourage local leaders and community members to support policies that promote affordable housing development such as zoning updates, incentives for builders, and limits on short-term rental conversions. Strengthening Juneau’s housing availability will support individuals, families, businesses, schools, and essential services.
Juneau should be a place where people can build a life, not somewhere they are forced to leave because they cannot find housing. This affects all of us, and now is the time to take meaningful action.
Sincerely,
Sudarat “Jelly” Saengsawang
Juneau