Taft Mills Group proposes 80-unit workforce housing development in Conway

The City of Conway Planning Commission meeting on March 6, 2025, spotlighted a significant proposal for workforce housing that could reshape the local community. The Taft Mills Group, a seasoned real estate development company, is seeking to rezone a site near downtown Conway to build 80 workforce housing apartments aimed at families earning 70% or less of the area median income.

Vice President of Development for Taft Mills, who presented the proposal, emphasized the urgent need for affordable housing in Conway, citing a staggering 66% increase in rents over the past decade. The average rent now exceeds $1,850, making it increasingly difficult for local workers—such as teachers, first responders, and retail employees—to find suitable housing. The proposed development aims to provide a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom units, catering to a variety of household sizes.

The site, strategically located near grocery stores, parks, and schools, is designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding community. The developers plan to create a buffer zone with trees and bushes to transition from higher-density buildings to the nearby single-family homes. The project will also feature amenities such as a community building, playground, and walking trails, enhancing the living experience for future residents.

The Taft Mills Group has a strong track record, having developed over 100 communities across the Southeast, and is recognized as a top workforce housing developer. They highlighted the rarity of this opportunity, noting that Conway has not seen a workforce housing project funded in nearly two decades. The developers are urging the Planning Commission to recommend approval for the rezoning, which they believe is crucial for addressing the growing housing crisis in the area.

As the meeting opened to public input, community members were invited to voice their opinions on this pivotal development that could significantly impact Conway's housing landscape.