In a significant stride towards addressing workforce housing needs, Collier County leaders hosted a dedication ceremony at the former Golden Gate Golf Course. This event, held on November 27, 2023, at 10 am, marked the commitment of 25 acres at the southeast corner of the golf course, laying the foundation for the county’s largest workforce housing development to date.

 

The challenge of workforce housing is rapidly intensifying in Collier County. It’s crucial to understand that housing affordability is more than a concern for those without employment or low incomes. It has evolved into a pressing issue for our middle-income workforce, encompassing professions such as first responders, hospitality and healthcare workers, teachers, and home and yard maintenance workers.

 

This predicament has also grown into a critical dilemma for the business community in Collier County, resulting in labor shortages across various sectors and affecting the most prominent employers. Recent statistics indicate that approximately 40,000 individuals commute from outside the county daily, constituting 17.4% of Collier County’s workforce. The impact of major hurricanes in 2017 and 2022, along with recurring lowland flooding, has further exacerbated the problem by causing significant damage and destruction to affordable workforce housing.

 

To address this issue, the Collier County Government, Board of County Commissioners, Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation, Collier Community Foundation, Moorings Park Foundation, the Greater Naples Chamber, and Rural Neighborhoods have been working on a workforce housing initiative with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of the Treasury. This is a unique, one-of-a-kind partnership between philanthropy, government, and public and private donations, stated Dave Lavendar, Moorings Park CEO.

 

“In District Three, my commission district, and across the entire county, affordable housing is a pressing issue,” stated Collier County Commissioner Burt Saunders. The county has partnered with Rural Neighborhoods, a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the affordable housing challenge. The collaborative effort aims to build affordable apartments for essential service workers.

 

This workforce housing initiative is part of the broader Golden Gate Golf Course project. The Renaissance Senior Living, representing the project’s second phase, will comprise 120 affordable apartments designed for individuals aged 62 and above. Notably, it includes a significant development: a 120-bed state veterans nursing home offering a range of services such as adult day care, health care, and outpatient therapy for veterans.

 

Additionally, plans are underway for a vocational education facility by Collier County Public Schools, targeting post-high school technical training. The project also envisages either a nine- or 12-hole public golf course, incorporating facilities for the First Tee—Naples/Collier program.

 

Saunders emphasized, “When essential workers can’t afford to reside in the communities they serve, it can result in a shortage of qualified workers and hinder economic growth and competitiveness.” More than 25 acres of land were allocated to ensure that those who prioritize our community’s well-being and the most vulnerable have access to affordable housing.

 

Renaissance Hall at Old Course: A Vision for the Future

Named “Renaissance Hall at Old Course,” this pioneering development is situated at the crucial intersection of Golden Gate Parkway and Collier Boulevard. Acquired by the county in 2019 and bolstered by a surtax passed by the community, this project embodies a collective effort to meet the urgent housing needs of the area.

A Commitment to Community and Diversity

Amy Patterson, Collier County Manager, highlighted the project’s role in creating stable, diverse communities like Golden Gate City. She emphasized that affordable housing near workplaces strengthens community bonds and fosters a sense of belonging and social cohesion.

Meeting the Needs of Frontline Workers

The development, spearheaded by Rural Neighborhoods under the leadership of Steven Kirk, plans to build approximately 380 housing units. These homes will cater to essential frontline workers, including first responders, nurses, and teachers, reinforcing the organization’s longstanding commitment to providing shelter for working families. The goal is to build best in class to set a national model,” stated Steven Kirk, Rural Neighborhoods.

Balancing Development with Community Sentiments

Acknowledging the mixed emotions surrounding the development, Kaydee Tuff of the Golden Gate Civic Association recognized the project’s necessity despite it transforming the original vision for Golden Gate City. She expressed the community’s understanding of the importance of local workforce housing for the well-being of essential service providers.

A Comprehensive and Inclusive Approach

The project also envisions Renaissance Senior Living, offering over 100 affordable apartments for seniors. This phase, expected to commence in early 2024, aims to set a national standard in community housing development.

Beyond Housing: A Multipurpose Development

The Renaissance Hall at Old Course is part of a larger initiative that includes a 120-bed state veterans nursing home, a vocational education facility by Collier County Public Schools, and a public golf course featuring First Tee—Naples/Collier facilities.

Looking Ahead with Optimism

As Collier County Commissioner Burt Saunders remarked, 2024 is poised to be a landmark year when these multifaceted projects come to fruition, signaling a new era of community development and support.

 

Ashley Jones, MSW
Vice President of Community Impact, United Way of Collier and the Keys