Colorado-Real-Estate-Journal_314255

70 / BUILDING DIALOGUE / December 2022 A s a region, growth and change are challenging sustainability in the West. From increased housing de- mand, water challenges and the skyrocketing cost of construction, it seems everything is acutely impacting housing affordability and the environ- ment. For Colorado’s mountain towns, pandemic migrations due to work flex- ibility have only exacerbated the challenging conditions for locals. The Alta Verde neighborhood in Breckenridge is set to make a difference. Located on the McCain property in Breck- enridge, this revolutionary addition to the community will provide more than 250 units of affordable and workforce housing to the area on a platform of sustainability. Formerly a dredged mine site, the 128-acre town-owned McCain property is slated to accommodate a variety of gov- ernmental and community uses, thoughtfully integrating development with the Blue River and overall site revital- ization. Through these efforts, the site’s ecological health has improved and now integrates locals housing with open space, trails and improved wildlife habitat. Norris Design has been planning and designing affordable housing in Colorado for more than 15 years. We began work- ing with the town of Breckenridge on Alta Verde in 2014 on master planning and vital infrastructure. First came the re- cycling center, then a solar garden, then the new water treat- ment plant. Working together, our team developed a strong relationship with the town and other private partners – a collaboration that continues today. The town contracted Gorman & Co. to develop the first Alta Verde to Bring Affordable, Workforce Housing to Breckenridge Elena Scott, LEED AP Principal, Norris Design Connection is key to building community, so a variety of spaces were planned and designed to facilitate connection between residents.