Affordable Housing
Phoenix is taking action to tackle housing costs. The City Council has approved a plan to convert 10 acres of school district land into affordable housing. The deal ensures long-term affordability and speeds up the development process. All without adding costs to the city’s budget.
A Fast-Tracked Plan For Housing
The city of Phoenix, Arizona is temporarily buying land from two school districts and immediately reselling it for housing development. This allows the land to be repurposed quickly while keeping prices low for future residents.
- Isaac School District: 4.56 acres for $3.1M
- Alhambra School District: 5.54 acres for $2.3M
- Total Housing: 264 units (72 at Wild Rose Flats, 192 at Salamanca Square)
- Affordability Requirement: Rents must remain affordable for at least 40 years
- Income Limit: Households earning 80% or less of the area’s median income
- Projected Construction Start: 2026
By stepping in as an intermediary, the City keeps the process moving without private-sector roadblocks.
Also Read: AZ Approves AI-Powered Charter School ‘Unbound Academy’
Why This Land Is Available
Arizona law only allows school districts to sell land under certain conditions. Properties can be transferred to government agencies if they are no longer needed for school operations. This method lets Phoenix secure the land for affordable housing without lengthy negotiations.
- No Disruptions: The land isn’t being used for schools
- City’s Role: Temporary ownership to facilitate the deal
- Cost-Neutral: No financial impact on Phoenix’s budget
This approach ensures underused land benefits the community instead of sitting vacant.
What’s Next?
With construction scheduled to begin in 2026, Phoenix is making sure more families have access to affordable housing. Wild Rose Flats, and Salamanca Square will provide hundreds of new homes, helping curb rising rents. As housing demand grows, similar projects could be on the way.
Also Read: What Is The 3C School District Located In Scottsdale, Arizona?