Re: July 21 news story.
Affordable housing comes in several forms. In particular, the accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, is part of the solution to relieve our housing crisis. This niche housing unit provides diverse financial opportunities for a homeowner. These smallish homes can be used for a caregiver, rented, offered as a guest house, or used to house a family member. It is a housing opportunity that quietly fits into our existing infrastructure.
In 2010, Denver’s zoning allowed ADUs in 13 percent of our neighborhoods. Several cities around Denver allow an ADU, if it fits on a property. Denver should allow ADUs on all properties, if it fits. Although these structures cost from $120,000 to $240,000 depending on size and materials, you cannot build or buy a home in Denver for these figures. To encourage homeowners, the city’s first dedicated fund for affordable housing should eliminate construction permit costs and reduce Denver’s wastewater fees.
Rebecca Alexis, Denver
