Steering Committee is Formed

The hard work has begun on Brown Ranch, a 536-acre property on the west side of Steamboat Springs, which was gifted to the Yampa Valley Housing Authority in mid-August by an anonymous donor. With housing inventory at all-time lows, YVHA is under pressure to get product to the market as quick as possible. Last month, a steering committee was formed to create a vision for the property that will provide desperately needed housing, perhaps over 500 units.

90 locals applied for 20 committee spots, which were filled with a diverse range of representatives. “The Brown Ranch Steering Committee is a true snapshot of our community, representing a variety of skill sets, viewpoints, and demographics,” said Sheila Henderson, Brown Ranch Project Manager. “The 20 who were ratified by the YVHA Board are meeting weekly and have created an overall vision along with the main priorities for the property that will guide development through the coming decades.”

First Community Presentation to be Held At Strings Music Pavilion

The YVHA also received 10 proposals from around the nation from technical consultants to assist the committee with their vision and planning. The first community presentation will be held next month at the Strings Music Pavilion. The goal is to finalize the Comprehensive Development Plan by the end of 2022.

In the coming months, the committee will evaluate housing demand, infrastructure, urban design, long-term stewardship, sustainability, and project economics. Those on the steering committee bring a wide range of opinions and experience from long-time local ranchers to a 13-year-old student.

Goal is Affordability and Diversity

Their overarching goal is to create neighborhoods with a variety of amenities including open space, parks, medical facilities, a grocery store, infant care and schools. Housing will vary in price point and offer a sustainable opportunity for the people of Steamboat.