3D VISUALIZATION AND ELECTRONIC MODELS AS ACCELERATORS OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING APPROVALS IN THE UNITED STATES

Abstract

The shortage of affordable housing in the United States has become a federal priority, with the White House in FY2025 calling for reforms to reduce costs, accelerate approvals, and expand supply. Traditional housing development processes are slowed by lengthy permit reviews, costly design revisions, and community resistance often rooted in the difficulty of interpreting technical plans. This article argues that 3D visualization and electronic models—encompassing Building Information Modeling (BIM), 3D city models, and immersive environments—are practical tools to align with federal housing goals by streamlining approvals, lowering “soft costs,” and enhancing public participation. Academic evidence demonstrates that realistic visualizations improve comprehension, trust, and dialogue in planning, while BIM-based permitting systems can automate compliance checks and cut review times. By converting abstract proposals into testable, transparent digital information, these tools reduce uncertainty, mitigate opposition, and enable more efficient multi-agency coordination. In the context of FY2025 presidential housing priorities, integrating 3D visualization and electronic modeling into permitting systems and participatory processes can significantly accelerate the delivery of affordable homes, ensuring that federal housing goals are met with greater legitimacy, equity, and efficiency.