Hotel conversions put hundreds of new low-income housing units on the market in Anchorage

Report on Increase in Low-Income Housing in Anchorage

Introduction

Anchorage, Alaska (KTUU) – According to a public/private partnership consisting of nonprofits like the Rasmuson Foundation, The Anchorage Coalition to End Homelessness, and the city, Anchorage is experiencing the largest increase in low-income housing in a single year. The partnership has announced the purchase of a third hotel for conversion into housing and the conversion of a fourth hotel into a long-term shelter. These initiatives will add 332 new units to help reduce homelessness in Anchorage.

Partnership and Initiatives

The Anchorage Affordable Housing and Land Trust, a nonprofit organization, has purchased three hotels in the last nine months as part of their efforts. The hotels include the Guest House in Downtown, the LakeHouse in Spenard, and most recently, the Barratt Inn in Spenard. Additionally, the former Sockeye Inn in Midtown has been converted into a long-term shelter for individuals with complex physical needs, and the city-owned former Golden Lion Hotel has also been converted.

Benefits of Hotel Conversions

Converting hotel rooms into permanent housing is a cost-effective solution compared to new construction, according to Jason Bockenstedt, the executive director of Anchorage Affordable Housing and Land Trust. It is also one of the fastest ways to transition people from homelessness into their own homes.

Tour of the Barratt Inn

On Thursday, Bockenstedt offered tours of the Barratt Inn, which will soon provide 96 units for low-income individuals. The units include small single rooms, efficiencies with some kitchen fixtures, and larger one-bedroom apartments. Rent prices will range from $840 to $1,150 per month, including all utilities. It is expected that at least 70% of the residents will have housing vouchers to assist with rent payments.

Removal of Barriers

Bockenstedt highlighted that the nonprofit has removed certain barriers that often prevent individuals from accessing housing. They do not conduct credit checks or inquire about prior evictions. Additionally, they do not require the first and last month’s rent upfront, which can be a significant obstacle for many people.

Future Plans

Anchorage Affordable Housing and Land Trust intends to purchase more properties in the future, provided they can afford them in a real estate market with rising property prices. The decision will depend on the cost-benefit analysis and the availability of necessary funding.

Ongoing Need for Housing

Despite the increase in housing units, there is still a need for more affordable housing in Anchorage. Meg Zaletel, the executive director of the Anchorage Coalition to End Homelessness, stated that the city requires at least 2,000 additional low-income units to adequately address the housing needs of the population.

Application Process

Interested individuals can find applications for affordable housing offered by Anchorage Affordable Housing and Land Trust on the organization’s website.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

1. SDG 1: No Poverty
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
3. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

Copyright 2023 KTUU. All rights reserved.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: alaskasnewssource.com

Join us, as fellow seekers of change, on a transformative journey at https://sdgtalks.ai/welcome, where you can become a member and actively contribute to shaping a brighter future.