Fort Collins explores affordable housing options including Remington Parking Lot site

Fort Collins City Council is actively exploring options to enhance affordable housing in the community, with a focus on identifying suitable sites and funding sources. During a special work session on June 5, 2025, council members discussed the potential of the Remington Parking Lot as a viable location for new affordable housing developments. While acknowledging that it may not be the only option, they emphasized its strong suitability.

City officials highlighted the importance of thorough due diligence in evaluating available properties, including both city-owned and private lands. There is a growing interest from private property owners to collaborate on affordable housing initiatives, which could lead to diverse solutions for the community's housing needs.

The council also addressed previous funding challenges, noting that anticipated pandemic-era funding did not materialize as expected for new construction projects. They are now focusing on alternative funding opportunities, including infrastructure grants that could alleviate costs associated with housing projects. A recent grant application aimed at improving the Oak Street right-of-way was submitted, which could support future developments.

Additionally, the council discussed the competitive nature of tax credit applications for affordable housing, with only one project typically receiving funding each year. This underscores the need for comprehensive planning and site control to enhance competitiveness in future applications.

As Fort Collins continues to navigate the complexities of affordable housing, the council's proactive approach aims to secure both suitable sites and necessary funding, ultimately striving to meet the community's housing demands. The discussions from this meeting set the stage for ongoing efforts to address housing challenges in the city.