The Stapleton redevelopment is a shining example of how communities can provide affordable housing to America’s working families, according to a national report released Thursday.
Among low- to moderate-income families with children, the nation’s homeownership rate is 56 percent – a full percentage point below the rate a quarter-century ago, according to the report by Homes for Working Families, the Fannie Mae Foundation and Urban Land Institute.
More than 12 percent of American families are spending over half their income on housing.
The groups examined 15 communities, including Stapleton, that provide working families with affordable housing.
They said Stapleton’s success is largely the result of a partnership between private developer Forest City Enterprises and the city of Denver, which provided reduced land costs, tax incentives and creative financing.
“Any success that’s been possible at Stapleton has been the result of a thoughtful, active and engaged community,” said Tom Gleason, vice president of public relations at Forest City. “We’re just implementing the plan the citizens of Denver have produced for Stapleton.”
Staff writer Margaret Jackson can be reached at 303-820-1473 or mjackson@denverpost.com.
