Austin Strives to Address Housing Shortage with New Affordable Apartments
AUSTIN — The city of Austin is facing a significant challenge when it comes to housing availability and affordability. However, there is some good news for low-income families with the recent opening of 300 new affordable apartments on the south side of the city. These apartments aim to provide much-needed relief for those struggling to find a place to live.
New Opportunities for Families
The newly opened apartments are called the Bridge at Estancia, located conveniently near Interstate 35 and State Highway 45. Families like Melonie Delarosa, a stay-at-home mom and one of the first residents, are already experiencing the benefits. “For a parent looking for a place to stay that’s affordable, that was one of the big things,” Delarosa shared. “It’s a blessing. You don’t see this a lot. You don’t see affordable housing with all the amenities that it comes with.”
The Bridge at Estancia offers various amenities including a swimming pool, fitness center, co-working space, and an activity room. This activity room will host important community programs such as health screenings, financial literacy training, and after-school programming, all in collaboration with the nonprofit organization Community Housing Resource Partners.
A Collaboration for Better Housing
The project resulted from a partnership between the Housing Authority of the City of Austin and NRP Group, a group of builders dedicated to expanding affordable housing. “We are committed to expanding the base of affordable housing in our city. This is a tough market. This is a tough place for working families to find someplace safe for their families to live,” said Mike Gerber, the CEO of the Housing Authority.
Currently, the median family income in Austin for a family of four is approximately $126,000, marking a 3% increase compared to 2023. This rising cost of living makes it increasingly difficult for families to secure housing. State Senator Jose Menendez commented during the grand opening, stating, “Because the city, the housing authority, and the state want to provide affordable opportunities, then you can bring that rent down.”
Additional Support for Austin Families
In addition to the new apartments, the city is launching a campaign called “I Belong In Austin” which aims to provide financial assistance to those struggling with rent. Starting on November 1, the city will offer $3.6 million in grants for rental assistance. This funding can help cover moving costs, storage, and relocation for families at risk of eviction, giving them more options for stable housing.
Delarosa expressed her relief, saying, “It’s comforting. It’s welcoming. It’s beautiful, and it checks all the boxes,” reflecting the feelings of many who are finding new homes in this community.
How to Apply for Assistance
If interested families wish to apply for the city’s grant money, they should be aware of income requirements and can submit their applications from November 1 to November 7. More information regarding the Bridge at Estancia and details on the grant application process can be found on their respective websites.
The combined effort of new housing and financial support marks a significant step for Austin in addressing its ongoing housing issues, providing hope for families in need.
