A new study conducted by the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health examined residents’ experiences and perspectives after a Rental Assistance Demonstration conversion. The researchers, who conducted 30 in-depth interviews with residents across three RAD sites, published their findings in an article for Housing Policy Debate, “The ‘Projects’ Are Nice Now”: Resident Perspectives on the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) Program.“
In their abstract, the authors state that the article demonstrates notable (and mostly positive) results associated with RAD conversions according to residents. They identified four main outcomes of the RAD conversion: (a) upgraded heating/cooling systems and appliances; (b) improved unit layout, aesthetics, and conditions; (c) perceived safety and connectedness; and (d) enhanced resident resources and pride of place. Areas for improvement included increased resident education throughout the RAD process, as well as improving social support and community-building efforts among residents.
First author Diana Hernandez, PhD, said in a press release that the “research is especially relevant as housing authorities across the U. S. proceed to implement RAD, particularly in large urban areas.”
The full article is available to Housing Policy Debate subscribers and for purchase online.