Bloomington Mayor Tim Busse, and Councilmember Lona Dallessandro have opened the doors to a new affordable housing development in the city. The Noble Apartments, which officially opened on May 14, are offering under half of their 149 units at reduced rents targeted at individuals making no more than 50% of the area median income.

According to Bloomington's official news release, the development was made possible in part due to the city’s Opportunity Housing Ordinance, Mayor Busse highlighted that necessary professions such as first-year firefighters and teachers, might find these new housing options particularly beneficial. "I believe in the notion that if you work in Bloomington, you should be able to live in Bloomington," Busse was quoted in the statement.

The Noble Apartments, constructed by Enclave Companies, found all 14 of its affordable units claimed soon after opening up applications. "The speed at which the affordable units in Noble Apartments found tenants shows the importance of the need to create these housing opportunities," Housing Development Specialist Kenny Niemeyer noted in the city's announcement.

Another recent project in Bloomington, Oxboro Heights, offers 100% affordable units catered to independent seniors. Constructed by MWF Properties, this five-story building at 600 West 93rd Street provides a range of affordable options for incomes between 30% to 70% AMI. It benefited from a partnership involving a significant loan from Bloomington’s Housing and Redevelopment Authority. "I want to thank the developer, MWF, for working closely with City staff and with its lending partner to bring this project from idea to reality," Busse said, underscoring the collaborative nature of the project's development.

Bloomington's officials are championing these housing developments as a major step towards meeting the city's goal of expanding affordable housing options and fostering a community that's both inclusive and desirable to a broader spectrum of residents.