Adams County Approves Preliminary Plan for Affordable Housing Development

The Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved the rezoning, preliminary development plan, and preliminary plat for a 116-unit, multi-family housing development at 7401 Broadway in unincorporated Adams County at public hearing today.

The site formerly housed the county’s Child and Family Services Center, which was relocated to the new Adams County Human Services Center in Westminster in October 2017. The county partnered with Unison Housing Partners to repurpose this county-owned land to address the pressing need for affordable housing with a special focus on creating 12 units for youth transitioning out of foster care.

Following today’s approval, Unison will work to create a final development plan and final plat, subject to review and approval by the Board of County Commissioners later in 2019.

“Affordable housing has long been a priority for this board, and we are grateful to have the expertise of Unison on our side,” said Board Chair Steve O’Dorisio. “By developing this building into 116 housing units with top-notch amenities, we are fitting another piece into the puzzle of affordable housing in Adams County.”

The new housing units will be created within the existing building on the site, and four new buildings will be constructed to the west. Additional elements included in the new development include plans for raised-bed planters for gardening, two playgrounds, barbecue area, basketball court, and rooftop deck.

“We’re thrilled to move forward with the county on another affordable housing complex after having previous success with Alto in Westminster,” said Peter LiFari, Executive Director of Unison. “Our partnership with Adams County is making a difference in the lives of so many people in the community.”

Adams County completed a Housing Needs Assessment in 2017. One of the goals identified in the assessment is to reduce the affordability gap with housing costs and incomes. This new development supports the objective of providing affordable housing and other essential services to residents who are extremely cost-burdened.