Business, government and leaders and residents agree Will County needs more housing, more diverse housing and housing that’s affordable. County leaders are exploring solutions to the growing problem.

Although Will County is one of the top producers of single-family homes in Illinois, some population groups struggle to find any housing to fit their needs and budgets.

Antoinette Walker, 54, of Lockport said her monthly rent is going up Jan. 1 – again – and will be at $1,450. She works two jobs, “and I’m still struggling,” she said. First of a three-part series examining housing affordability and access in Will County