After a year of work, and supported by the engagement of thousands of members of our community, the Yampa Valley Housing Authority unveiled the Brown Ranch Community Development Plan on Oct. 6. The plan envisions a healthy and vibrant community that will squarely address the challenge of providing affordable housing to Steamboat’s workforce.

It was informed by local residents, public officials, business owners and nonprofits, and guided by an expert team of local and national consultants. The plan is ambitious, envisioning over the next 20 years the development of some 2,300 homes — both for-rent and for-sale — along with supporting stores, offices, public services and recreational facilities.

Importantly, Brown Ranch won’t be isolated, but will help to stitch together the existing west side neighborhoods and connect them more effectively to the larger community. And with a strong emphasis on walkability, nature and a diversity of incomes and household types, Brown Ranch can serve as a model for other mountain towns facing similar challenges.

While the completion of the plan is an important milestone, much work remains to realize the Brown Ranch vision. The plan is a starting point, not the destination. But at this moment let’s celebrate our collective achievement: the completion of a truly community-driven planning process and the articulation of an inspiring vision for Steamboat’s future.

Patrick Phillips

Steamboat Springs