BUILDING DREAMS: Affordable Housing Complex Breaks Ground
Partners in Housing is pleased to announce the start of construction on the Bentley Commons affordable housing expansion! A community celebration groundbreaking event was held on Jan. 30 with special guests present and comments made by Mayor Yemi Mobolade and Dr. Mike Claudio, Harrison School District Assistant Superintendent.
GPR Properties, comprised of Partners in Housing, along with Greccio Housing and the Rocky Mountain Community Land Trust, acquired the development at Bentley Commons in 2009. At that time, 24 two-bedroom apartments and a community center were existing on the site. These homes have been operated as affordable rentals.
When the property was acquired, GPR Properties knew the long-term plan was to add more housing at the site next to Sand Creek with lovely mountain views. The current construction plan will add 6 buildings with 168 new apartments – 60 one-bedroom, 81 two-bedroom, and 27 three-bedroom – bringing the total to 192 to be completed by mid 2025.
Bentley Commons will house working families with children, singles, veterans, and families in transitional housing units. We are working with the US Veterans Administration and VASH vouchers and with Colorado Springs Housing Authority’s HAP voucher program as well.
All 192 apartments will be home to our community members earning below 60% of Area Median Income, with many units set aside for those at less than 30%, 40% and 50% of Area Median Income.
Access to safe, quality, affordable housing – and the supports necessary to maintain that housing – constitute one of the most basic and powerful social determinants of health. Aside from preventing homelessness, financial hardship, and stress and anxiety, housing provides stability for children and the family unit, avoiding repeated moves, from homes, schools, relationships, and the workplace.
GPR Properties has worked collaboratively on many projects over the past 20 years and are excited to be partnering with Palace Construction, Way Architects, Medici Consulting Group and with many funders to allow these efforts to reach this milestone.
Many thanks to all who provided support in the planning and efforts to overcome hurdles along the way. Major funders include US Bank, Myron Stratton Home, City of Colorado Springs, El Paso County Housing Authority, CHFA, and Colorado Division of Housing.
To read our full 2024 Winter Newsletter, visit here.
