The Gering City Council has given approval to a redevelopment plan that would create 22 owner-occupied duplex units near Oregon Trail Park.
Integrity Developments, LLC would build the $3.6 million project of 11 duplex townhomes on lots that are currently vacant north of K Street along 12th and 13th Streets.
City Engineer Annie Folck explained during Monday’s council meeting why the project needs about $891,000 in Tax Increment Financing, primarily for water and sewer improvements. “In discussions with the developer, staff says they stated that in order for them to be able to get this built first of all, and especially at a price point where people can actually purchase these properties, they’re going to need that additional incentive,” said Folck, “because otherwise there’s just no way that they can get it down to the price point and have to pay that much for all of the infrastructure to build these homes.”
The townhomes would be approximately 1,400 square feet, with three bedrooms, two baths and a detached two-car garage in the back yard.
Folck pointed out the project was for workforce housing that’s much-needed in the region, and fits well with the community’s comprehensive plan, prompting the council to give the redevelopment plan unanimous approval.
