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20 T imberlawn Crescent Timberlawn Crescent,a mixed-income rental commu- nity,integrates affordable housing with market-rate units owing in part to requirements imposed by Montgomery County’s inclusionary zoning policy. Initially,residents of the surrounding community strong- ly opposed the Timberlawn Crescent development, despite numerous meetings to solicit neighborhood input during the planning process. Upon seeing the actual design of the buildings,however—with assisted units that are indistinguishable from those that are market rate—neighbors were reassured and their con- cerns put to rest. The development’s moderate density, with buildings designed as two-story townhouses over flats,is comparable to that of surrounding commu- nities. The architect sought to site the buildings to pre- serve as many of the existing tulip trees as possible, creating a buffer between buildings.54 Profile Proposed mixed-income housing developments can face significant challenges from NIMBY neighbors protesting “Not In My Back Yard!” because of concerns about the perceived fiscal, social, and environmental impacts of affordable housing units. The objections—which can come from low- income as well as affluent neighbors—include fears of poorly designed units, higher densities, increased crime, and lowered property values (in higher-income areas) or a disproportionately high share of affordable housing (among lower- income residents). Sometimes, negative stereo- types about low- and moderate-income families, people of color, and new immigrants can arouse community opposition.46 While the neighborhood concerns vary, a savvy developer with a good repu- tation and a history of producing high-quality products can win community support. Attractive design, attention to details, and good community relations are important assets with which to leverage community support for a proj- ect. In many cases, mixed-income developments that include market-rate housing are a politically palatable solution to providing affordable hous- ing. For example, in more affluent areas that offer better schools and job opportunities, a mixed-income approach with high-quality design and management may be particularly important in order to build affordable housing successfully.47 At the mixed-income Oak Park Village housing development in Boise, Idaho, some neighbors initially resisted the affordable housing component of the project. The mayor of Boise strongly supported the project, encouraging excellent architectural design. Negotiated amenities, such as the addition of more green space and extended streets and sidewalks in the Myth #8 Community opposition to new mixed-income housing is an insurmountable obstacle. Fact #8 Mixed-income housing can be an appealing option that lends itself to community acceptance. Residents of the community surrounding Timberlawn Crescent initially opposed the development. Upon seeing the actual scheme of the buildings— designed comparably to surrounding developments, as two-story townhouses over flats—they were reassured, and accepted the development. HO U S I N G O P P O R T U N I T I E S C O M M I S S I O N O F M O N T G O M E R Y C O U N T Y , M A R Y L A N D