In Maricopa County, local authorities and community partners have taken a concrete step toward tackling the region's affordable housing shortage. In a recent announcement, the county heralded the groundbreaking of Cross Winds @ Three Star Pointe, a new affordable housing initiative in Surprise, aimed to ease the plight of low-income families and those experiencing homelessness.

"Ensuring access to affordable housing in the west valley is not just a matter of economics – it's a matter of human dignity," Supervisor Clint Hickman, District 4, stated, underscoring the human element at the heart of the housing crisis. Described by Maricopa County, this venture represents a multifaceted approach combining immediate relief for the homeless and the establishment of long-term, stable housing solutions for low-income residents.

According to details shared by the county, a sum of $16,723,321 sourced through HOME-ARP and ARPA dollars, alongside additional funding from various organizations, will facilitate the creation of this $28,473,321 community project. This collaborative effort involves contributions from entities including the State Housing Trust Fund, Local Initiatives Support Corporation's Housing is Healthcare Fund and a unique partnership with Bezos/Native American Connections (NAC) Equity.

Designed to include 32 affordable housing units for families earning up to 60 percent of the Area Media Income (AMI), and 13 non-congregate shelter units, Cross Winds @ Three Star Pointe serves as a beacon of hope. The units, scheduled for completion in late 2026, aim to offer more than just a living space, but also a launchpad to a brighter future dotted by amenities such as energy-efficient features, recreational areas, supportive services, and vital life-skills classes, with all information available from Maricopa County's announcement.