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Housing is in a crisis.
As I'm sure most of us are aware, housing has reached crisis levels. With the median *household* income sitting at $52.5k in Montrose, the rental market leaves little room for locals to find affordable places to live.
We have the Basecamp Apartments getting ready to open its doors to its first round of renters next month, but rental costs (starting at $1600 and $2,000/month) mirror Denver rentals. These apartments, located next to the Tortilla Flats community, have been marketed as workforce housing.
I spoke with Sarah Fishering, the Housing Resources director last week, who said that while this complex may fill an income bracket need in the community, Montrose still lacks affordable, low-income housing. And that's a problem. Here's what she said of common feedback from community members:
"A lot of folks are just really frustrated. They may be working families, single parents or even older adults who are working. They're trying to make their way in the world and feel like they just can't make it because they cannot afford to rent or buy in Montrose or the surrounding area, and it's disempowering when you feel like you're doing everything you can to keep your family and yourself safe."
As Sarah pointed out, it's a shame that we have people who can't find a place to lay their head down at night. She also said many people need help finding a place to stay, but outside of the winter, Housing Resources has nowhere to point a homeless person to for the night.
It's important to point out that the city is conducting its own housing needs study, which is currently under way. This study will hopefully provide insight into our community's need and how the city, county and other resources can begin to tackle this complex issue.
Do you have any thoughts on the housing crisis or on the new Basecamp Apartments? I'd love to hear your perspective. You can reach me at cassiek@montrosepress.com
Have a great rest of your day and stay warm, friends.
- Cassie
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