Boulder is setting the stage for an innovative solution to its affordable housing crunch with the unveiling of Boulder Mod, a new modular home factory. In a unique collaboration, the City of Boulder, Boulder Valley School District (BVSD), and Flatirons Habitat for Humanity have pooled their resources to address the region's housing needs. The opening ceremony is scheduled for October 23, with a ribbon-cutting at 4 p.m. at 6600 Arapahoe Ave, inviting the community to get a first glance at the facility and learn more about the modular home production process.
According to the City of Boulder, Mayor Aaron Brockett expressed his excitement about the project, remarking, "We are thrilled to see this project come to life and to witness the impact it will have on our community. Boulder Mod is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together with a common purpose." The factory is not just about assembling homes, it's also building a stronger, more resilient future for Boulder by investing in affordable housing and education.
The initiative brings together various segments of the community, the city provides the funding for construction and equipment, BVSD supplies the land, and Habitat manages the operations. Adding to this synergy, BVSD's Career and Technical Education students will work along with Habitat staff, getting hands-on construction and manufacturing experience. Nicole Rajpal, the president of the Board of Education, stated, according to the City of Boulder, " We understand that our students desire genuine learning experiences. This project enables them to acquire valuable skills through hands-on learning, while also making a positive impact in their local community."
Boulder Mod can construct up to 50 modular homes annually, with an initial output of 12 to 15 homes a year. The first homes will be dedicated to the Ponderosa Community Stabilization Project, upgrading residences at a local mobile home park. Dan McColley, Executive Director of Flatirons Habitat for Humanity, highlighted Boulder Mod's importance, "Boulder Mod will be the first modular home factory dedicated to solving the affordable housing crisis." McColley stated, as detailed by the City of Boulder, emphasizing that this initiative will be a model for community-driven positive change.