Concerning affordable housing development in counties not closing the gap between estimated existing housing units within the county and existing housing needs.

SB 5587 mandates that the Washington center for real estate research produce biennial reports, starting in 2026, analyzing existing housing units and needs across various income levels in each county. These reports will track each county's progress in addressing housing gaps and meeting emergency housing needs. The bill also amends the Public Works Board's criteria for financial assistance. It requires the board to prioritize public works projects that promote infill development or increase affordable housing in counties identified in these reports as having a gap between existing housing and housing needs.