Elkhart Approves Major Affordable Housing Project

42-unit development on Sterling Avenue to offer rent-to-own model for families

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Elkhart City Council has unanimously approved a 42-unit affordable housing development on Sterling Avenue next to Sterling Park. The project features seven townhome-style buildings designed for families earning below $80,000 per year and will use a rent-to-own model to give families a pathway to homeownership. The city is investing $500,000 to help cover construction costs.

Why it matters

The new affordable housing development demonstrates Elkhart's commitment to making homeownership accessible to residents across income levels, addressing a critical need in the community.

The details

The 42-unit affordable housing project will be located on Sterling Avenue next to Sterling Park in Elkhart. The development will feature seven townhome-style buildings designed for families earning below $80,000 per year. The project will use a rent-to-own model, giving families a real pathway to eventually purchasing their homes.

  • The Elkhart City Council unanimously approved the project on February 27, 2026.
  • Construction on the 42-unit development is set to begin in the coming months.

The players

Elkhart City Council

The governing body of the city of Elkhart, Indiana that approved the affordable housing development.

Rod Roberson

The mayor of Elkhart, Indiana who stated the project demonstrates the city's commitment to making homeownership accessible.

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What they’re saying

“The 42-unit project will break ground on Sterling Avenue next to Sterling Park, it features seven town-home-style buildings designed for families earning below $80,000 a year.”

— WNDU.com (WNDU.com)

“The development uses a rent-to-own model, giving families a real pathway to homeownership.”

— WNDU.com (WNDU.com)

“Elkhart is investing $500,000 to help cover construction costs.”

— WNDU.com (WNDU.com)

“The project demonstrates the city's commitment to making homeownership accessible at all income levels.”

— Rod Roberson, Mayor (WNDU.com)

What’s next

Construction on the 42-unit affordable housing development is expected to begin in the coming months after receiving approval from the Elkhart City Council.

The takeaway

Elkhart's approval of this major affordable housing project with a rent-to-own model shows the city's proactive efforts to increase homeownership opportunities for lower-income families, addressing a critical need in the community.