Fort Collins Expands Affordable Housing Land Bank

City secures two more acres for future affordable housing development

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The City of Fort Collins has added two acres to its Affordable Housing Land Bank, strengthening long-term plans to expand permanently affordable housing options in Northern Colorado. The newly acquired parcel at 1900 Laporte Ave. will be held for future development, allowing the City to secure land now in an escalating real estate market and position it for affordable housing when infrastructure and community growth align.

Why it matters

Through the Affordable Housing Land Bank Program, the City purchases land before development, then sells it to qualified affordable housing developers with restrictions that ensure permanent affordability. This strategy is designed to create stability for residents who may otherwise be priced out of the region as real estate prices continue to rise.

The details

The Land Bank Program currently holds five parcels. Since its creation in 2002, the program has purchased seven properties and sold two, which were developed into the Village at Horsetooth and Birdwhistle Townhomes. Parcels are typically held for at least five years, with some retained for more than 15 years before development. The Laporte Avenue property was acquired as part of a larger purchase by the City's Natural Areas Department. The site includes an existing house and outbuildings that will be rented as a residence until redevelopment occurs.

  • The Affordable Housing Land Bank Program was created in 2002.
  • The City has purchased seven properties and sold two through the program since its creation.

The players

City of Fort Collins

The local government of Fort Collins, Colorado, which operates the Affordable Housing Land Bank Program.

Sue Beck-Ferkiss

The City's Social Policy and Housing Programs manager.

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What they’re saying

“The City is one of many partners required to make affordable housing options a reality for at least some residents in our community — land banking is planning for future needs now.”

— Sue Beck-Ferkiss, Social Policy and Housing Programs Manager (City of Fort Collins)

What’s next

The City plans to hold the Laporte Avenue property and rent the existing house and outbuildings until the land is ready for redevelopment into affordable housing.

The takeaway

Fort Collins' Affordable Housing Land Bank Program is a proactive approach to securing land for future affordable housing development, helping ensure that working families and longtime residents can continue to find homes in the rapidly growing region.