Grand Junction City Council Approves $12.75M for Salt Flats Affordable Housing Project

The Grand Junction City Council took a significant step towards addressing the local housing crisis during its regular meeting on July 16, 2025, by approving a funding allocation for the Salt Flats housing project. The council approved a request for $12.753 million in Private Activity Bonds (PAB) to support the development of affordable housing units on a 21.78-acre site owned by the city.

The Salt Flats project aims to provide a mix of homeownership and rental options, with an emphasis on affordability. Approximately 70% of the planned 467 units will be designated as affordable housing, catering to individuals and families earning between 30% and 70% of the Area Median Income (AMI). This initiative is particularly crucial as recent assessments indicate that over half of renters in Grand Junction are experiencing cost burdens, spending more than 30% of their income on housing.

Tyler Elick, Chief Development Officer at Brookwell Development, presented details about the first phase of the project, known as Ascent at Salt Flats, which will include 144 units. This phase is designed to fill a critical gap in the local housing market, particularly for studio and larger family units, which are currently in short supply. The project is expected to utilize low-income housing tax credits, allowing for expedited funding without competing in the traditional annual process.

Council members expressed strong support for the project, highlighting its potential to alleviate the pressing need for affordable housing in the community. The allocation of PABs is seen as a strategic move that leverages city resources to create impactful housing solutions without incurring additional costs to the city.

Looking ahead, the city has committed to developing a total of 374 affordable housing units by the end of 2026, with the Salt Flats project playing a pivotal role in achieving this goal. The council's decision marks a proactive approach to tackling housing challenges and enhancing the quality of life for Grand Junction residents.