How a Local Church has made Affordable Housing a reality in Colorado Springs
In a groundbreaking effort to combat the affordable housing crisis in Colorado Springs, the Solid Rock Christian Center (SRCC)—under the visionary leadership of Pastors Ben and Wanda Anderson—has successfully developed the Village at Solid Rock. This 77-unit affordable housing complex, makes SRCC the first congregation in the city to repurpose church-owned land for housing, setting a precedent for faith-based community development.
A Community-Centered Approach to Housing Development
Recognizing the critical need for affordable housing in Southeast Colorado Springs, SRCC partnered with the Solid Rock Community Development Corporation (SRCDC), Commonwealth Development Corporation, and Greccio Housing to bring this vision to life. The decision to transform church land into housing reflects SRCC’s deep-rooted commitment to serving the Colorado Springs community in meaningful and practical ways.
While organizations like Rocky Mountain Community Land Trust (RMCLT) have been addressing the needs for affordable housing for years through projects such as Bentley Commons and Woodmen Vistas. Solid Rock Christian Center, however, is among the first churches in the state to use their land for this purpose.
More Than Affordable Housing: A Thriving Community
The Village at Solid Rock goes beyond providing affordable housing—it's designed to nurture community connections and support resident growth with amenities including:
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Social gathering spaces with barbecue areas
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Family-friendly playground facilities
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Multi-purpose community room
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Resident fitness center
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Computer lab supporting career advancement
These thoughtful features enhance residents' quality of life while fostering stronger community bonds among neighbors.
Colorado Springs Funding and Financial Partnerships
This transformative project succeeded through creative financial partnerships totaling over $20 million, including:
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$8.68 million in federal low-income housing tax credit equity from Hunt Capital Partners
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$2.98 million in Colorado state tax credit equity
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$7.2 million tax-exempt permanent loan from Pacific Western Bank
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$750,000 HOME loan from the City of Colorado Springs
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$500,000 loan from the Colorado Division of Housing’s Housing Trust Fund program
By leveraging these resources, SRCC has made a lasting investment in affordable housing for the Colorado Springs community.
State Recognition for Innovative Housing Solutions
The project has received notable recognition from Colorado Governor Jared Polis, who during his tour praised the development: "The cost of living has gotten so high. So these kinds of solutions, more housing near job centers that people can afford, can help revitalize neighborhoods, and can also provide a stable roof over your head."
Future Growth: Expanding Affordable Housing Options
Following the success of the Village at Solid Rock, the SRCDC plans to develop an additional 75 affordable housing units over the next two to five years. This expansion will continue to provide much-needed housing solutions while reinforcing Colorado Springs’ commitment to affordable living options.
Just the Beginning: How Churches Are Starting a Housing Movement
The Village at Solid Rock stands as a model for faith-based initiatives nationwide. By creatively utilizing their land assets, religious organizations can take an active role in addressing social challenges—from housing shortages to community enrichment.
This project not only meets an immediate need for affordable housing but also serves as a replicable framework for other faith groups and nonprofits seeking to make a lasting impact in their communities.
The Johnson Team's Housing Market Insights
As your trusted Colorado Springs real estate advisors, The Johnson Team recognizes the importance of diverse housing solutions in maintaining a healthy real estate market. Projects like the Village at Solid Rock demonstrate innovative approaches to community development that benefit our entire region.
Interested in learning more about housing developments or real estate opportunities in Colorado Springs? Contact the Johnson Team today for personalized guidance and expert market analysis.
Learn more about the Rocky Mountain Community Land Trust and their work in affordable housing here.
