NYU Furman Center

The NYU Furman Center advances research and debate on housing, neighborhoods, and urban policy. Established in 1995, it is a joint center of the New York University School of Law and the Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service. Its mission is to: 1. Conduct objective academic and empirical research on legal and public policy issues involving land use, real estate, housing, and urban affairs in the United States; 2. Promote frank and productive discussions among elected and appointed officials, leaders of the real estate industry, leaders of non-profit housing and community development organizations, scholars, and students about critical issues in land use, real estate, and urban policy; 3. Present essential data and analysis about the state of New York City’s housing and neighborhoods to those involved in land use, real estate development, community economic development, housing, urban economics, and urban policy; and 4. Train the next generation of urban policy leaders—including researchers, analysts, and practitioners—by fostering an enriching environment where students meaningfully contribute to the Center’s work. The NYU Furman Center received the prestigious MacArthur Award for Creative and Effective Institutions in 2012. This distinguished award recognized the Center's excellence in providing objective, policy-relevant research and analyses to address the challenges facing New York City and other communities across the nation.