City leaders tackle affordable housing challenges head-on

During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the challenges of increasing housing density on a specific property, particularly due to the complications posed by the hillside terrain. The conversation highlighted the financial implications of potential construction methods, such as deepened footings, which could escalate costs by an estimated $6 million.

To address these challenges, the team shifted their focus to a plan that would allow for the construction of 107 units on flatter land, although additional soil stabilization work is still required, adding to the overall expenses. The discussion acknowledged that the cost per unit remains high, a sentiment echoed by multiple participants who noted that this trend is consistent with other ongoing projects in the area, such as River West, where unit prices range from $260,000 to $290,000.

The meeting also touched on the collaboration between the city and various development partners, emphasizing the importance of grant funding to support affordable housing initiatives. Officials expressed appreciation for the ongoing partnership with local developers, particularly in the River West and 36 North projects, as they work to address the city's affordable housing challenges. The commitment to these initiatives reflects a broader mission to support community needs and enhance housing availability.