Source: Denverite
Permanent Large Scale and Deep Affordability Achievement in Elyria-Swansea Neighborhood
Columbia Ventures has created a new, landmark community in the Elyria-Swansea neighborhood of Denver that’s under dramatic displacement pressure due to rising prices. Featuring 150 units of quality housing with a significant medical clinic and ancillary retail, the development is a permanent commitment to workforce and affordable housing.
“We’ve now carved out the first phase of this community just steps from the 48th & Brighton National Western Center Station RTD station,” said Columbia Ventures’ Managing Partner Dillon Baynes. “And it delivers—half of the apartments are targeted at teacher and first responder incomes (80% of area median income), and half target incomes at the 30% and 50% of area median income levels. This is real affordability.”
Viña Apartments offers units ranging from studios to three bedrooms with a suite of modern amenities.
“The City and County of Denver is proud to partner to deliver affordable housing, enabling households of all income levels to benefit from mass transit for generations to come,” said Britta Fisher, executive director of Denver’s Department of Housing Stability.
Source: Denverite
Melissa Diaz moved to Colorado from California fleeing from an abusive relationship. She previously worked for different health nonprofits but ultimately her own health took a toll on her.
Diaz said she eventually lost her housing and became homeless.
“Housing is vital. That’s where it all starts,” Diaz said. “When I was in California, I saw how mental health issues were tied to homelessness. You have to wonder if it’s tied to being in the street and the survival instincts that have to come along with that. When you’re in that position, you don’t go to the doctor. You don’t take care of yourself. You’re just living to survive the next day. Housing is where it starts.”
Diaz found that housing and told her story on a dreary yet inspiring day at the Viña Apartments, a new and affordable apartment complex in Elyria-Swansea, that’s been in the works since 2015.
Source: Denverite
