MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — More than 80 new apartment units are expected to be developed in Hutchinson as community leaders work to address a housing shortage that could become more pronounced with upcoming economic development projects.
Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Debra Teufel said a housing study conducted several years ago found the community needs about 100 new housing units each year for 10 years to accommodate both replacement needs and future growth.
Teufel said progress is being made on the single-family side, with development occurring around 43rd Avenue and Plum Street and additional housing expected near 11th Avenue and Hendricks Street. Liberty Homes and Strawn Contracting are among developers moving forward with new homes.
Apartment housing remains another significant need.
Teufel said two Hutchinson developments were among 12 projects statewide recently selected through the competitive low-income housing tax credit process. Developers had previously sought funding without success before submitting new applications this year.
The Hutchinson Community Foundation also played a role by making impact investments in both projects, helping the developers earn additional points during the competitive selection process.
One apartment development is planned near Dillons north of 30th Avenue, while another is expected near 13th Avenue and Lorraine Street. Together, Teufel said the projects will add more than 80 apartment units.
The demand is already evident at the recently completed Meyer Landmark development, which Teufel said is down to fewer than a half-dozen available units.
Housing demand could increase further as construction begins on Evergy's approximately $1 billion generating plant south of Hutchinson.
Kiewit, the project's general contractor, is preparing to bring workers into the area. Teufel said company representatives have indicated the project could employ about 650 workers at its peak.
Some employees associated with the project have already leased apartments at the Meyer Landmark. Kiewit is also working with the Chamber as it looks to connect with local contractors and suppliers.
The housing shortage can also make it more difficult to attract new residents. The Chamber participates in the MakeMyMove program, which promotes Hutchinson and Reno County to people interested in relocating.
Teufel said a person interested in becoming the community's 10th mover through the program recently contacted the Chamber after spending several weeks searching unsuccessfully for an apartment.
Teufel said the situation underscores the importance of increasing housing supply as Hutchinson attempts to capitalize on what she described as a significant growth opportunity.