By Beth Lamberson
The Pagosa Springs Community Development Corporation (PSCDC) has selected local builder BWD Construction for the first 10 homes of the PSCDC Workforce Housing project. The single family two-bedroom, two-bath homes will be built in Chris Mountain II and Trails Subdivision in Pagosa Lakes. Key partnerships include Archuleta County donating the lots and pre-development costs to the PSCDC along with fee waivers from the Pagosa Lakes Property Owners Association (PLPOA).
Rory Burnett, BWD CEO states, “We have been attempting to get into building workforce housing for the last six years to serve middle income housing. We’re proud to be the local contractor to take these first 10 homes across the finish line.”
Completed homes are expected to be available for purchase by December 2024.
PSCDC Executive Director Emily Lashbrooke explains, “Workforce housing has not only been a top priority, but a pressing local concern for our board of directors and staff. We are proud to move these first 10 homes into the marketplace this calendar year. It’s a vital step by our organization to improve the economic health of Archuleta County and Pagosa Springs.” The PSCDC plans for these homes, which are the first phase of a four-phase project, to provide home ownership for law enforcement, the school district, the fire and hospital districts, and additional key labor sectors in the Town and County. The properties will have deed restrictions to preserve affordability into the future, while allowing for modest value increases for homeowners.
Homes are designated for households earning between 80% and 120% of the Area Median Income (AMI) which is $48,720-$73,080 for a one-person household. A four-person household 80%-120% AMI is $60,320-$90,480. Purchase prices will range from $290,000 – $350,000. (AMI data are calculated by the Colorado Division of Local Government.)
Burnett explains, “These homes will have a unique identity for homeowners. We are excited to build workforce housing with character, designed for efficiency, practicality, and aesthetics.”
Applications for potential homeowners will open by May 1, 2024, through the PSCDC website and local press releases. You can sign up for PSCDC notices at pagosaspringscdc.org.
About the Pagosa Springs Community Development Corporation
The mission of the nonprofit 501 (c)(3) PSCDC is to enhance the quality of life for the citizens of Pagosa Springs and Archuleta County by creating jobs’ encouraging new capital investment’ and creating a business-friendly community. The PSCDC works closely with existing businesses to maximize profitability and sustainability. For more information, please visit us online at pagosaspringscdc.org.
Beth Lamberson is Community Grants Manager with the Pagosa Springs Community Development Corporation.