Boulder launches innovative housing initiatives for older adults

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant advancements in affordable housing initiatives, focusing on older adults, permanent supportive housing, and homeownership opportunities in Boulder and surrounding areas.

Key developments include the opening of approximately 60 units for older adults at Hilltown in South Boulder this fall, alongside another 60 units planned at the Alpine Balsam project. The Boulder Housing Partners (BHP) also acquired Golden West to maintain affordable housing options for seniors.

The city is committed to integrating permanent supportive housing (PSH) into its projects, mandating that at least 10% of units in funded developments be designated as PSH. A notable project, Bluebird, will provide 40 PSH units with on-site support services to assist residents facing housing stability challenges.

Homeownership initiatives are gaining momentum, with the city actively purchasing market-rate homes to sell at discounted prices to eligible buyers earning at or below 100% of the Area Median Income (AMI). A modular factory, set to produce its first homeownership unit in September, aims to ramp up production throughout 2025, with a focus on creating affordable housing options.

Officials highlighted the importance of tracking progress through a dashboard that monitors unit counts and demographic data, contributing to regional housing goals. A proposed regional scatter site acquisition program is also in the works, although current funding criteria pose challenges.

In Erie, local officials reported on their successful implementation of fast-track permitting for affordable housing projects, including a 35-unit development that has already received building permits. The town is also exploring economic incentives and developing an inclusionary housing ordinance to further support affordable housing efforts.

The meeting concluded with discussions on prioritizing affordable housing for community college and private college workers, highlighting the complexities of fair housing regulations while expressing a commitment to explore solutions that could benefit local employees.

Overall, the meeting underscored a collaborative effort among local governments to address the pressing need for affordable housing, with a focus on innovative solutions and community support.