Archway Communities, Valley Housing Fund, Team Up for ‘Missing Middle’ Housing Project in Gunnison, Colo.

Archway Communities, based in Lakewood, Colo., is teaming up with affordable housing non-profit, the Valley Housing Fund of Gunnison, Colo., to build workforce and middle-income housing in Gunnison, Colorado. The new project will provide 40-75 affordable rental homes in north Gunnison. 

“We’re incredibly excited about the sale of the Wilson parcel to Archway Communities,” said John O’Neal, Valley Housing Fund board president. “From our early conversations about the potential for this site, Archway was a great choice to move this vision forward. Their organization has extensive experience building affordable housing in Colorado and shares our belief that stable housing is essential to building strong, healthy communities. This partnership reflects what we do best at the Valley Housing Fund—bringing the right people to the table to create more housing opportunities in the Gunnison Valley. I look forward to welcoming our newest neighbors to the heart of this community.”

The development is envisioned as a mix of thoughtfully designed rental homes with a focus on the “missing middle”—local workers who earn too much to qualify for traditional subsidized housing but cannot afford market-rate rents in today’s housing environment.

Like many rural mountain communities across Colorado, Gunnison is experiencing a growing gap between wages and housing costs. Rising home prices, limited inventory, and increased demand have made it increasingly difficult for teachers, healthcare professionals, service workers, and public employees to secure stable housing. As a result, many workers face long commutes, overcrowded living situations, or are priced out of the community altogether. This development aims to provide attainable, year-round housing options that support a stable workforce and strengthen the long-term vitality of the Gunnison Valley.

“We understand the need for affordable housing in Colorado and are committed to creating safe and supportive communities for residents across our state,” said Laura Brudzynski, CEO of Archway Communities. “We are excited to expand our portfolio into the Gunnison Valley, and are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Valley Housing Fund on this project. We look forward to building relationships with residents and partners to move this important housing project forward.”

Archway Communities acquired the land for the new project from the Valley Housing Fund in May 2026. It will work with the local government to annex and zone the land for multi-family housing.