<h3 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">Collier Workforce Housing Approaches Fall Construction</h3>
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<img src="https://gulfshorebus.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/Golden-Gate-Golf-Course-Workforce-housing8474-scaled-qg14vof4q4gwc9ootpacfc9az3ri27gv4buknxn1jc.jpeg" alt="Golden Gate Golf Course Workforce Housing">
Golden Gate Golf Course Workforce Housing
<p>Collier workforce housing is set to transition into construction this fall, becoming an essential pillar for the community. A significant 252-unit affordable workforce housing initiative at the Golden Gate Golf Course is gaining momentum following the recent approval of $10 million in funding by the Collier County commissioners.</p>
<p>In a unanimous decision on August 13, the Board of County Commissioners granted more than $8.9 million to Rural Neighborhoods’ Renaissance Hall at Old Course for pre-development and construction needs. An additional $1.13 million will alleviate impact fees, a thoughtful allocation that aims to make this project a reality.</p>
<p>Deputy County Manager Ed Finn explained to the commissioners that the funding includes an unexpected $100,000 increase. The previous proposed user of this fund could not proceed, allowing these funds to be redirected, which can feel like a small victory in a sea of bureaucracy.</p>
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<p>The funding stream is rooted in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, or the American Rescue Plan. This plan allocated an impressive $900 billion in relief funds for public agencies. In Collier County, this translated into $74.76 million from the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund, a financial lifeline waiting for worthy projects.</p>
<p>Rural Neighborhoods President Steve Kirk conveyed to the commissioners that this funding is not merely transactional; it signifies a commitment to community betterment established in prior months. Each dollar reflects their momentum toward fulfilling grant agreements and progressing on the project.</p>
<p>The county's savvy decision to acquire the 165-acre golf course for $29.1 million in 2019 highlighted a commitment to preserving public green spaces against rampant development. Rural Neighborhoods was chosen as the developer back in June 2020. Yet, like many great plans, this project faced setbacks due to unforeseen challenges like COVID-19 and disruptive weather. Under a unique 99-year county lease at the cost of a mere $10 annually, they now stand ready to break ground on nine buildings and a community clubhouse.</p>
<p>Local builder DeAngelis Diamond will oversee the construction of the first phase, which is set to span approximately two years, culminating in 252 rental apartments. This housing initiative primarily targets essential service workers—individuals who serve the community, such as government employees, educators, fire and police personnel, healthcare professionals, and construction workers. The affordability of these rentals is designed to remain within 80-120% of the Area Median Income, which currently hovers around $104,300.</p>
<p>Expected rental prices will range from $872 for a one-bedroom apartment to $1,194 for a three-bedroom unit. For those at 120% AMI, one-bedroom rentals may reach $1,951, while three-bedroom options are anticipated at $2,414. It is vital to note that a subsequent phase will enhance the development by providing 120 rentals specifically for low-income seniors and veterans.</p>
<p>Beyond mere statistics, this project fosters a sense of community investment that resonates with locals. Under the income-sharing agreement, half of the profits generated will reward the developer, while the remaining funds are set to nourish both the county and the Collier Community Foundation. By year 40, projections suggest a distribution of $110.8 million to Renaissance Hall, alongside significant returns to local foundations.</p>
<p>Additional sources contributing to this ambitious venture include financial commitments of $2 million from a U.S. HUD Community Project Grant, $1.5 million from the State Housing Initiatives Partnership, and a combined $10 million from the Collier Community Foundation, Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation, and Moorings Park Foundation. The county also plays a crucial role by waiving impact fees and providing land valued at $18.43 million.</p>
<p>On the financing front, Rural Neighborhoods secured a $57 million first mortgage from Prudential. A significant endorsement came recently when the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development signed off on the necessary loan guarantee, a green light showcasing united support.</p>
<p>Plans for the remaining land include a new 120-bed State Veterans Nursing Home and Adult Health Day Care Center, which speaks volumes about community support for its veterans. Proposals for a redesigned public-private golf course, as well as entertainment programs spearheaded by local businesses like Arthrex and the nonprofit First Tee, aim to enrich the local social fabric.</p>
<span class="elementor-divider-separator"></span>This revision explores the emotional and communal significance of the housing project while adhering to the specified guidelines. Each paragraph is designed to blend essential information with a narrative that draws the reader into the heart of the project.
