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What NIRPC’s NWI 2050+ Housing Goals Mean for the City of Gary

On March 7, 2025, Lakeshore Public Media published an article by Michael Gallenberger entitled, “NIRPC looking to implement NWI 2050+ plan's housing goals.” As stated, “Northwest Indiana is projected to gain 115,000 new residents over the next 25 years, requiring 50,000 additional housing units across Lake, Porter, and LaPorte counties.” 


NIRPC’s NWI 2050+ housing plan outlines how the region should prepare, and several of its priorities directly align with Gary’s current challenges and opportunities.


Key Implications for Gary


1. Gary is a prime location for higher‑density, transit‑oriented housing


NIRPC emphasizes concentrating new housing near existing downtowns and commuter rail stations. Gary already has:

  • Multiple South Shore Line stations

  • A traditional urban street grid

  • Walkable commercial corridors


This positions Gary as one of the few communities in the region already aligned with NIRPC’s preferred development pattern.


2. Gary’s high vacancy rate becomes a regional priority


The region has 30,000 vacant housing units, and NIRPC wants to determine which can be restored and reoccupied. Gary holds a significant share of these units, meaning:

  • Gary may receive more attention and support for rehabilitation

  • Vacant properties could be evaluated for reuse rather than demolition

  • The city could leverage regional planning to attract reinvestment into older neighborhoods


3. Smaller lot sizes and infill development match Gary’s existing fabric


NIRPC notes that 85% of the region’s homes are single‑family and mostly on large lots, an inefficient pattern they want to shift away from. Gary’s historic neighborhoods already feature:

  • Smaller lots

  • Compact blocks

  • Existing infrastructure


This makes Gary a natural fit for the region’s push toward denser, more affordable housing.


4. Affordability concerns highlight Gary’s role in the regional housing ecosystem


The article notes that households earning under $50,000 have limited options region‑wide. Gary remains one of the few places where affordable housing is still attainable. As other communities struggle with rising costs, Gary may see:

  • Increased demand

  • More pressure to preserve affordability

  • Opportunities to attract new residents while stabilizing existing neighborhoods


5. Gary will be included in NIRPC’s community‑specific housing snapshots


NIRPC’s Economy & Place Committee is creating a housing profile for each municipality. For Gary, this could mean:

  • A clearer picture of housing needs

  • Data to support grant applications

  • Stronger justification for state and federal investment

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