Affordable housing apartment complex moves forward in Jefferson City
The Jefferson City Council unanimously approved a rezoning request and preliminary plans for a new affordable housing complex Monday.
ABC 17 News reported that the developers want to build a 40-unit apartment complex on Trade Center Parkway, which is just off Old Lohman Road.
The development would be built with the help of government tax credits through the Missouri Housing Development Commission.
It is aimed at retaining more skilled workers for jobs like manufacturing. The affordable housing, or “workforce housing,” would have income maximum and minimum requirements.
The land used to be owned by Modine and was originally intended for light industrial use. But the current owner said he has not been able to generate interest in the property under that land use since he bought it in 2009.
On Monday, two residents who live in the neighborhood that backs up to the site spoke in opposition to the development. The neighbors voiced concerns about overcrowding at Lawson Elementary School, whether there is a need for that type of housing, and the police and fire departments’ ability to keep the area safe.
“We have had the only Cole County murder occur in the Westview Apartments, and then we want to add more Westview Apartments? I don’t see how this is a good idea,” said Angela Boyer, who lives near the site. “I don’t see how it’s safe. Residents consistently have crime issues with eggings, vandalism, people breaking into cars.”
But another person who lives in the neighborhood spoke in support of the plans, saying it would hopefully spur other development in the area.
“If a company comes in and sees that Jefferson City doesn’t have the housing they’re looking for, you can’t decide then to build the housing,” Ryan Brockschmitt said. “I think it’s very important for the community to have that housing in place for these companies.”
The developers said they hope to start construction in late summer 2018 if the tax credits are approved. Construction is expected to last for about a year.
The developers must come back to the city with more detailed plans.
