Tucson City Council approves major affordable housing project with over 358 units

The Tucson City Council meeting held on February 4, 2025, focused primarily on the redevelopment of Tucson House and the introduction of several new affordable housing projects. The meeting outlined significant plans aimed at addressing the city's housing needs, particularly for low-income residents.

The first major topic discussed was the Tucson House redevelopment, which is set to begin construction in the summer of 2025. This project will provide 358 affordable housing units targeted at individuals earning 60% of the area median income or below. All units will be supported by housing vouchers, ensuring accessibility for residents with little to no income. The redevelopment will also include extensive structural upgrades and renovations, increasing community and amenity space from approximately 5,000 square feet to nearly 14,000 square feet.

Following the Tucson House project, the council introduced the Sugar Hill On Stone development, which is expected to start construction in the spring of 2025. This project will add 66 affordable housing units aimed at families, with a focus on those earning between 30% and 80% of the area median income. It will also include 37 replacement units with vouchers for low-income residents.

The meeting also highlighted the Amazon motel rehabilitation project, which is currently under construction and will create 30 affordable housing units by fall 2025, with a second phase planned for spring 2026 that will add 58 more units. Both phases will target unsheltered individuals earning 30% of the area median income or below.

Another significant project discussed was the Stone and Speedway development, which will unfold in two phases, starting in spring 2027 and concluding in spring 2028. This project aims to provide 166 additional units, with a focus on mixed-income and mixed-use development.

The council emphasized that despite the reduction in units at Tucson House from 408 to 358, there will be a net increase of over 300 affordable housing units across all projects. The city plans to maintain ownership of the land and will work with Gorman, a partner with extensive experience in affordable housing, to manage the redevelopment.

A key aspect of the Tucson House project is the relocation of current residents. The city has developed a comprehensive plan to ensure that residents are stably housed during construction, offering options to stay in the building or relocate temporarily or permanently. The relocation process will cover all associated costs, and residents will receive regular updates throughout the construction timeline.

In conclusion, the Tucson City Council meeting underscored the city's commitment to expanding affordable housing options and improving living conditions for its residents. The outlined projects reflect a strategic approach to addressing housing needs while ensuring that current residents are supported throughout the redevelopment process. The council plans to continue engaging with the community as these projects progress.