In the high alpine town of Crested Butte, Colorado, a groundbreaking ceremony marked the beginning of something remarkable. The Mineral Point development, designed by STUDIO Architecture, will provide not just desperately needed new homes for the community, but highly energy efficient and affordable workforce housing in this coveted resort destination.
A Vision for the Future
Located on the north end of Crested Butte adjacent to the town’s bike lanes, walking paths, hiking trails, and a bus/transit stop, Mineral Point is more than a housing project. This 35-unit development, awarded through Colorado’s Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program, will anchor a new neighborhood for those earning between 30% and 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI). The future homes address the dire need for affordable workforce housing in a town where the real estate market puts quality housing out of reach for many residents.
Design with Purpose
Notably, Mineral Point will achieve Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH) certification, ensuring residents enjoy the benefits of living in a home that prioritizes energy efficiency, sustainability, and health. This certification, administered by the U.S. Department of Energy, indicates the homes meet rigorous standards for energy efficiency and environmental stewardship, and translates into lower utility bills for residents and a reduced carbon footprint for the town.
Understanding the unique charm and character of Crested Butte, STUDIO Architecture designed Mineral Point to have three separate buildings, each reflecting the town’s aesthetic while offering modern, sustainable living spaces. From covered bike storage with maintenance tools to BBQ areas and outdoor gathering spaces, every amenity was planned to foster community and resident well-being.
A Collaborative Effort
Mineral Point highlights the power of partnership in addressing community needs. The project was funded by a mixture of federal low-income housing tax credits, financial support from the Town of Crested Butte, Colorado state grants, and the multi-jurisdictional Valley Housing Fund. Spearheaded by TWG Development, a housing developer known for delivering successful LIHTC projects across the nation, Mineral Point illustrates what can be achieved when communities come together to solve the affordable housing crisis.
The Impact on Crested Butte
The design and construction of Mineral Point is a significant step toward alleviating the housing crisis that troubles the Gunnison Valley and the nation at large. By providing affordable workforce housing, this development not only opens doors to those who call Crested Butte home, but it also strengthens the fabric of the community, ensuring that the town remains vibrant, income-diverse and accessible to all who contribute to its unique culture.
