Breckenridge’s long-awaited Runway Neighborhood project has officially broken ground, sparking a heated debate among officials, staff, and residents about the future of housing in the town. At the heart of the discussion is whether accessory dwelling units (ADUs) should be fully integrated into the neighborhood or simply prepared as “ADU-ready” shells for future development.
The Town’s Last Major Workforce Housing Effort
Runway Neighborhood is seen as the last significant workforce housing development in the town, with 81 units in the first phase, 27 of which could potentially include ADUs. Initially envisioned as a two-phase project with 148 units, the plan was scaled back due to economic uncertainty. The town committed roughly $34.6 million to subsidize phase one instead of moving forward with the full $50 million investment.
For many officials, this project represents more than just housing—it’s a chance to shape the workforce landscape of the town for decades to come. Mayor Kelly Owens emphasized that the decisions made today will determine how well Breckenridge can balance affordability and availability in the years ahead.
Balancing Affordability with Growth
Staff members advised caution in adding fully built-out ADUs, estimating construction costs at $120,000 per unit, with an additional $30,000 in utility hookups and permit fees. For buyers, this could increase home prices significantly, potentially pricing out qualified workforce buyers in the town.
Housing project manager Melanie Leas warned that requiring ADUs upfront might narrow the pool of potential buyers. “We just really couldn’t feel great about the million-dollar price point of a five-bedroom, deed-restricted home,” she explained. Instead, staff recommended a flexible model: build ADU-ready shells with infrastructure in place, leaving homeowners the choice to complete them later—possibly supported by grants.
Differing Views from Council Members
Despite affordability concerns, some members of the Town Council favored a more aggressive approach. Council member Todd Rankin argued that with limited land in the valley, density is essential for meeting workforce housing goals in the town. He suggested that fully building out ADUs could increase housing stock more efficiently, even if it raised costs.
Other council members, like Jay Beckerman, worried about inconsistencies in costs and permitting between attached and detached units. Meanwhile, Dick Carleton supported the staff’s recommendation for shells, pointing to the potential for grants to help homeowners finish ADUs when they’re ready.
The split opinions highlight a central dilemma for the town: how to increase housing density without making homes unaffordable for the very workforce they are meant to serve.
Looking Ahead for The Town
As Breckenridge continues to develop the Runway Neighborhood, the decision on ADUs will play a pivotal role in shaping the community’s housing strategy. With around 47% of the workforce already living in the valley, town leaders remain committed to maintaining a balance between affordability and growth.
For residents and workers in the town, the future of the Runway Neighborhood could determine whether housing remains accessible or drifts further out of reach. Council members have not yet reached a final vote, leaving the community waiting to see how this crucial decision will unfold.
Stay updated with the latest business and startup news. Visit Startup News for in-depth insights and fresh updates.
