The Stables brings affordable housing to Aurora families, seniors

In a move to combat housing affordability challenges, Grovewood Community Development has broken ground on The Stables, an intergenerational housing community in Aurora.

The project, at 10850 E. Exposition Ave., will transform 4.79 acres of the historic Aurora Horse Boarding Stables into 137 affordable rental homes for families and seniors.

The development will provide much-needed affordable housing options for the city. Home prices in Aurora have nearly doubled in recent years, pushing affordability to its lowest point in two decades, according to the Common Sense Institute of Colorado.

The Stables provides a solution, offering housing to households earning 30% to 80% of the area’s median income.

For nearly 80 years, the Baker family operated the city’s oldest indoor stables on the property.

“This site has a rich and meaningful history,” Jo Ellen Davidson, executive director of Grovewood Community Development, said in a statement. “For decades, it was a place where the community came together through a shared connection to animals, open space and nature. With The Stables, we are carrying that legacy forward, transforming a beloved gathering place into a community that will become a beautiful, nurturing home to generations of people.”

The first phase of the project will deliver 85 affordable family apartments. The second phase will add 52 senior apartments for people 62 and older.

The community’s design, led by Shopworks Architecture, preserves the site’s equestrian character while adding amenities like walking trails, community gardens and play areas. The location is within walking distance to Exposition Regional Park, the Highline Canal Trail and schools.

Grant, loan and equity sources from various sources, including the city of Aurora, Arapahoe County, the Colorado Division of Housing, Colorado Housing Finance Authority and the Impact Development Fund, are financing the project.

“Affordable housing options are essential for families and seniors who want to remain in the city they call home,” Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman said. “The city is proud to support efforts like this.”