How One Colorado City Paved the Way for In-Demand Affordable Senior Housing

Durango, CO has experienced a rising demand for housing over the last several years, and an influx of out-of-state buyers has threatened housing affordability for seniors, who represent the fastest-growing age group in La Plata County. In response, Volunteers of America (VOA), a nationwide nonprofit offering programs and services to vulnerable populations, developed Miremonte Apartments with the city's donation of 1.5 acres of land.

The 53-unit apartment building aims to support seniors’ desire to affordably age in place and connects them with medical services and natural resources of the surrounding area, The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) reports.

The onsite supportive services allow the seniors to age in place while maintaining their independence. A coordinator and community administrator facilitate services in accordance with the Volunteers of America National Services health implementation plan. A medical complex is within walking distance of the development. An on-demand transit service, the Opportunity Bus, provides door-to-door transportation to appointments and other essential services, and the development is located on a bus line. Adjacent to Miremonte is a wetland park with walking trails that the city plans to connect to downtown Durango and a regional trail network.

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