Willoughby Corner, an affordable housing community in Lafayette that includes 192 below-market-rate affordable homes, had its grand opening on August 21. The second phase of the project will include 128 more rental properties. The project has been spearheaded by the Boulder County Housing Authority (BCHA) and has taken eight years to reach this point.
According to Boulder County, Willoughby Corner will serve multiple generations, including families, individuals, older adults, and the Boulder County workforce.
“Willoughby Corner is a dynamic example of how much we can achieve to address the Colorado housing crisis when we come together and focus on solutions,” said Boulder County Commissioner Marta Loachamin. “A home provides stability and wellness which are pivotal to good health, financial security, and opportunities. With the completion of the first phase of this project, we are celebrating 192 new affordable homes in Boulder County, as well as the generations of people who will become a part of the Willoughby community.”
The development is the largest affordable housing development in the history of Boulder County. It also includes $15 million of infrastructure upgrades and is Colorado’s largest Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH) development. The power for the community comes from geothermal and solar energy. There is also a community center, gardens, a playground, a dog park, and pickleball courts.
The second phase of the development will include an expansion to the park and community spaces. The total number of units available will be 400 by the time the project is completed. There are a limited number of spaces available for people who earn up to 60 percent of the area median income, which is $61,320 for an individual and $70,080 for a couple.
“Willoughby Corner is the result of years of planning, persistence, and strong partnerships,” said Boulder County Housing Director and BCHA Executive Director Susana Lopez-Baker. “This community shows what’s possible when local, state, and federal partners work together toward a shared goal. I’m especially proud that we delivered the largest affordable housing development in Boulder County’s history while also setting a new standard for sustainability.”
Another affordable housing community is also under construction in Longmont, called Ascent at Hover Crossing. There will be an information session this week on Thursday, September 4 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Longmont Senior Center, where people can learn about the options, qualifications, and how to apply. There will be one to four-bedroom apartments and families who earn up to 80 percent of the area median income will qualify.
