Governor Mikie Sherrill announced a series of new initiatives aimed at addressing New Jersey’s housing shortage and improving affordability for residents across the state.

As part of the effort, applications for the second round of the New Jersey Housing Opportunities for Municipal Equity and Success (NJ HOMES) program will remain open until July 1. Thirty municipalities will be selected to receive technical assistance and planning support to help advance local housing development strategies and increase housing production.

The Governor also announced that the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) raised nearly $35 million through its Affordable Housing Tax Credit auction. The funds will be used to support affordable and workforce housing developments throughout New Jersey.

State officials say New Jersey continues to face a significant housing shortage, contributing to rising rents and home prices. Expanding housing supply has become a key priority for the Sherrill Administration as it seeks to make housing more accessible for working families, seniors, and young residents.

“We simply cannot afford years of delay while housing becomes more unaffordable,” Sherrill said. “If we want future generations to live, work, and raise families in New Jersey, we need to increase housing opportunities now.”

The administration’s broader housing strategy includes streamlining permitting processes, encouraging transit-oriented development, supporting affordable housing construction, and partnering with municipalities to identify opportunities for sustainable growth.

In April, Governor Sherrill signed Executive Order 17, creating a statewide Housing Governing Council and directing state agencies to coordinate efforts aimed at accelerating housing production and improving affordability.

Housing advocates, municipal leaders, and industry groups praised the announcement, calling it an important step toward addressing New Jersey’s long-standing housing shortage and creating more affordable housing opportunities statewide.