Arizona Trust Land: A Solution for Tucson’s Housing Crisis, While Our National Forests Remain Untapped

The ongoing discussions in the U.S. Senate regarding land auctions have sparked renewed debate on housing policies. Senator Mike Lee from Utah proposed a controversial measure that would allow federal officials to auction off millions of acres of protected land to private developers, ostensibly to tackle the affordable housing crisis.

This proposal has met with swift backlash. Critics argue that it poses a risk to cherished natural landscapes, suggesting it prioritizes profits for developers at the expense of environmental integrity. Areas like Sabino Canyon and Mount Lemmon have surfaced as possible targets for these auctions, prompting environmentalists to label the plan as a significant giveaway to industries such as mining and logging.

Even some Republicans expressed discontent with the notion. Initially deemed out of bounds by the Senate parliamentarian for not adhering to reconciliation rules, Lee attempted to reintroduce the proposal late Friday, signaling continued legislative efforts. The underlying issue remains: if land is a barrier to building more housing in Western states, many alternatives exist beyond selling off public treasures.

Former Pima County Administrator Chuck Huckelberry envisioned Tucson’s growth while safeguarding critical habitats. He noted that while federal lands are often protected, state trust land in Arizona—originally reserved at statehood in 1912—manages 9.2 million acres and is primarily designated for maximum economic benefit.

State trust land is tailored for development, aimed at generating funding for public schools. Unlike national parks, these lands serve multiple economic functions, from mining to logging. Tucson faces a housing crisis, yet existing city-owned properties are scarce. Much state trust land sits undeveloped and could support plans for affordable housing.

The 7,000-acre site just north of Rita Ranch exemplifies this potential. With high-density zoning, it could accommodate 28,000 homes. A recent study revealed Tucson needs 12,700 additional homes to support its current population—an alarming statistic considering fewer homes were built in the last decade than during the 1940s.

However, discussions around Tucson’s housing strategies often overlook these state parcels, even though they were intended to facilitate urban expansion. Initiatives like the Housing Affordability Strategy Tucson lack engagement with state trust land concepts, raising questions about comprehensive planning.

To navigate the housing crisis, the state might consider redirecting focus to these available lands. This approach could spur development of affordable starter homes, alleviating financial pressures on working-class residents.

Former Coalition of Sonoran Desert Protection director Carolyn Campbell emphasizes the importance of utilizing state lands before turning to federal options. Yet, she cautions against potential pitfalls, such as traffic congestion and Tucson’s water resource management. Large developments could generate excess traffic, complicating infrastructure needs.

Complicating matters further, the auction process for state trust lands typically favors the highest bidder. This requires constitutional amendments to prioritize affordable housing within the Land Trust’s objectives, a task needing federal cooperation for changes made back in 1910.

Ultimately, addressing Tucson’s housing shortage will require multifaceted solutions. While preserving environmental integrity remains critical, leveraging available state lands for responsible development offers a practical path forward. Balancing growth with sustainable practices is essential, reflecting Huckelberry’s foresight in protecting the city’s natural resources.