Wheat Ridge backs two state grant applications to support affordable‑housing infrastructure

The Wheat Ridge City Council on Dec. 8 approved two resolutions supporting applications to the Colorado Department of Local Affairs Transit Oriented Communities Infrastructure (TOCI) grant program for projects intended to support affordable housing.

Resolution 56‑2025 backs a grant application for the Ives Affordable Housing development; Resolution 57‑2025 supports a separate application for infrastructure tied to the Ridge Road Master Plan redevelopment. Councilor Scott Ohm described the Ives application, saying the grant 'will cover 75 of the total project cost, and FRH will provide the required 25% local match.' Foothills Regional Housing is identified as the development partner; if awarded, the city will serve as a pass‑through entity and staff said the city would return to council with a budget supplemental to record revenues and expenses.

Community development staff said Wheat Ridge is pursuing early certification through the TOC program and submitted pre‑application meetings to DOLA; staff recommended applying for both projects in the current funding round because construction schedules align and early rounds may be less competitive. Council approved both resolutions by voice vote (recorded as '8 ayes, no nays' in the transcript).

Councilors praised staff and the partnership with Foothills Regional Housing and acknowledged state funding plays a role in overcoming barriers to affordable housing.