Iowa City Housing Fellowship outlines affordable housing project with mixed units

Iowa City Council is making strides in affordable housing initiatives, focusing on a new project that will provide a mix of units for seniors and artists. During the work session on March 11, 2025, council members discussed plans for a development that includes 33 units designated for residents aged 55 and older, which will be classified under the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program.

The project aims to offer affordable housing options with an average income threshold set at 60% of the area median income (AMI). This means that while some units will be available for those earning below this threshold, others may cater to slightly higher income levels. The council confirmed that the affordable units will be managed locally by the Housing Fellowship, ensuring community oversight and support.

In addition to senior housing, the council is exploring the possibility of creating studio lofts that could serve visiting artists, particularly in light of recent funding changes affecting the International Writing Program. These units, ranging from 500 to 600 square feet, are intended to be affordable and may also accommodate artists associated with local cultural institutions like the Englert Theatre.

The discussions highlighted the importance of mixing different types of affordable housing within the same development, which will require some logistical adjustments, such as condo separation for specific units. The council is committed to addressing the community's housing needs while navigating the complexities of funding and project management.

As the council moves forward, they are focused on refining these plans and ensuring that the community remains informed and engaged in the process. The outcomes of these discussions are expected to have a significant impact on Iowa City's housing landscape, providing much-needed options for both seniors and artists in the area.