During the Riley County Commission meeting on September 25, 2025, a significant proposal for affordable housing development in Manhattan was discussed, highlighting the community's pressing need for new, economically accessible homes. The project aims to revitalize the housing market, which has seen no new construction of homes priced under $200,000 since 2017.

The proposed site, a nearly five-acre plot in Northview, has been under consideration for about three years. The project would require rezoning to accommodate higher density housing, which has already been approved after consultations with local residents and planning boards. The development is projected to include a mix of townhomes and cottages, with plans for up to 38 townhomes and 16 cottages, representing a total investment of approximately $16 million.

Key discussions centered around the financial framework necessary for the project to succeed, particularly the Rural Housing Incentive District (RHID) policy. The county's current guidelines stipulate a payback period of no more than ten years for financial incentives, which poses a challenge for the proposed development. The developers presented three scenarios for the project, with varying densities and corresponding payback periods ranging from just over seven years to more than 25 years. The developers sought clarity on whether the county would strictly enforce the ten-year payback requirement, which could significantly impact the project's feasibility.

Concerns were also raised regarding the site's drainage issues and the potential impact on local traffic patterns, especially given its proximity to an elementary school. The developers acknowledged these challenges and expressed a commitment to addressing stormwater management and traffic safety as part of the project.

Overall, the meeting underscored the community's urgent need for affordable housing and the complexities involved in bringing such projects to fruition. The commission's feedback will be crucial in shaping the next steps for this ambitious housing initiative, which aims to provide much-needed options for families in Manhattan.