Town approves new affordable housing development

The town of Franklin Board of Aldermen unanimously approved a special use permit Monday that will allow for the construction of a new affordable housing complex on the south side of Siler Road.

“This is for a 60-unit affordable housing apartment development on five acres of Siler Road. There will be four structures—three main apartment structures and a clubhouse.”

Town Land Use Administrator Justin Setser described the plans at Monday’s quasi-judicial hearing held before they granted approval.

The town’s planning board recently recommended the project with the condition that a right-turning lane be constructed in addition to sidewalks along the property.

Setser said a traffic study was waived by the NCDOT because estimated traffic flow was expected to be below 3,000 trips per day.

Jim Yamen, President of Workforce Homestead that is leading the project, also spoke during the hearing. He said the Indigo Apartments meet all town guidelines and urged the board to approve the special use application.

“It’s in a great location and there has been a market study done that documents a continuing need for more good quality affordable housing.”

Yamen said the project is part of a federal housing tax credit program and requires residents earn no more than 60 percent of the county’s median income.

“The households that would be eligible to live at Indigo, their incomes would be capped at about $30,000.”

Other features of the forthcoming housing development include a fitness center, computer center, multi-use room with kitchen, coin-operated laundry, playground, and a picnic area.