provided to The Santiva Chronicle
While seeking to rebuild a key housing complex destroyed by Hurricane Ian, Community Housing & Resources (CHR) announced plans to have at least 100 affordable housing units in its local inventory within the next five years.
The Category 5 storm, which killed 150 people in Florida and caused $113 billion in damages, wiped out 11 of CHR’s 76 units, according to Executive Director Nicole McHale. With fewer affordable options, people who work locally may not have a place to call home, she said.
“Ian was a blow to our progress, but not to our determination,” said McHale. “CHR is committed to assuring a home for every person in Sanibel/Captiva.”
Repairs to eight units damaged by the storm are already underway. Meanwhile, CHR is pursuing $3 million in funds to rebuild the Riverview complex on Periwinkle Way. Riverview was razed in 2023 after Ian left it uninhabitable.
The new two-story elevated building will consist of 10 one-bedroom units plus eight ensuite units built over parking spaces. It will be completely ADA accessible while complying with new building requirements mandating elevated properties in Sanibel. McHale said Riverview will have a diversity of residents, programs supporting economic self-sufficiency, and access to quality-of-life elements such as senior services, health care and K-12 education.
An initial rendering of the Riverview complex on Periwinkle Way.
The ensuites are a creative way to support a key demographic: young, lower-income workers.
“Each ensuite provides a private bedroom and bath, with a common living space and kitchen for all,” McHale explained. “With more young, entry-level workers moving here for jobs, this ensuite option offers housing at an affordable rate plus opportunities to socialize.”
Because housing costs are higher in the island communities, CHR is looking at new ways like the ensuite design to provide affordable options, she added.
“We’re thinking outside the box when it comes to housing – more efficiency, more reimagining,” said McHale.
Ultimately, CHR plans to have at least 100 units in place by 2029 – 25% more than it had prior to Hurricane Ian.
“We’re energized by this goal and grateful for our many partners who continue alongside us in creating affordable housing for all,” McHale said.
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