Collier County commissioners have shown admirable determination to address the critical housing shortage issue across Collier by allocating $21 million for the project of 252 rental units being made available to essential workers, seniors, and veterans using funds from various county and state sources.
This vital plan was created in response to the alarming 65% of respondents who identified lack of reasonably-priced properties as the ticket issue during a 2023 community assessment survey and was further justified by upcoming 2021 U.S. Census data, which revealed that 35% of residents were “housing burdened.”
Despite the numerous obstacles presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Hurricane Ian, contaminated soil, escalating construction costs, and interest rates for three years, Collier County commissioners proudly approved measures to allocate nearly $21 million from various county and state sources, including $4.8 million in land costs, to get the project started. The plan will provide 252 rental units for essential workers such as first responders, teachers, and healthcare workers, as well as 100 to 120 units for seniors and veterans.
The Need for Affordable Housing in Collier
The need in Collier for more affordable housing is immense, as evidenced by the 65% of respondents who identified it as the top issue in a 2023 community assessment survey. There is a direct correlation between lack of reasonably-priced properties and lengthy commutes for employees, with an Urban Land Institute analysis in 2016 determining that 40,000 people commute to Collier daily, and this figure is likely higher now due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the labor market. Addressing this need is paramount to improve Collier’s quality of life and ensure employers can effectively recruit and retain staff.
This need was further highlighted by the U.S. Census data in 2021, which revealed that 35% of residents were “housing burdened,” spending 30% or more of their income on housing. The Community Foundation of Collier County and the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation have taken steps to address this issue by sponsoring a comprehensive community assessment survey, and initiatives such as these are to be commended for helping to ensure that all Collier citizens can lead dignified lives.
Ground-Breaking Ceremony for Workforce Housing Project
We are excited to announce the upcoming ground-breaking ceremony for the workforce housing project on 25 acres at the southern end of the golf course. The 165-acre golf course was purchased by the county in 2019 for an incredible $29 million, and the estimated total development cost of the project has been set at $94 million, including the land value from the county. This ambitious endeavor is led by Rural Neighborhoods, a nonprofit organization with a 99-year contract with the county, and they have contracted DeAngelis Diamond as the builder.
Construction Timeline:
Phase One (February 1 – June 2021):-
- Nine residential buildings with 252 workforce units
- Clubhouse
Phase Two (July 2021 – September 2022):-
- Mid-rise building with 100-120 units for seniors and veterans
Kirk proudly announced the two-phased construction timeline of 15 to 18 months, starting February 1. Nine residential buildings with 252 workforce units and a clubhouse will be constructed in the first phase. Additionally, a mid-rise building with 100 to 120 units for seniors and veterans is part of the second phase, slated to be completed in September 2022. Despite the impacts of COVID-19 and interest rate hikes, Kirk has been able to adjust the plan and borrow $52 million instead of the originally planned $63 million.
Furthermore, Rural Neighborhoods has decided to defer their fee and contribute an additional $1.5 million to the project. Connolly-Keesler noted the long journey that the community foundation, the Schulze Foundation, and the Moorings Park Foundation have taken to reach this point after contributing $10 million three years ago. Despite the delays, all parties involved are doing everything possible to move the project forward, including removing the contaminated soil from the golf course and bringing in cover fill.
The permits from the state authorities have been obtained, and work is set to begin soon.
Income Qualifications
The essential workforce tenant program is available to those who meet the income qualifications, which range from $53,900 to $119,760 for a four-person household. Applicants must pay 30% of their household income on rent and utilities.
This exciting opportunity is available to those who meet the income qualifications, which range from $53,900 to $119,760 for a four-person household. Those accepted into the essential workforce tenant program must pay 30% of their household income on rent and utilities. The apartments are generously sized, ranging from 790 square feet for a one-bedroom unit, 1,055 square feet for a two-bedroom, and 1,335 square feet for a three-bedroom unit. Affordable rents range from $870 to $1,949 for a one-bedroom apartment, $1,037 to $2,411 for a two-bedroom apartment, and $1,191 to $2,411 for a three-bedroom apartment.
All these fantastic accommodations will be available in 2025.
