Billings City Council has approved a $8.9 million development that will provide 24 affordable housing units specifically for veterans, a move aimed at easing a citywide shortage of low‑income housing.
The city is home to more than 8,000 veterans, yet a market study by CR Builders LLC estimates Billings is already short nearly 3,750 low‑income units, including 359 units for veterans. The new project seeks to begin filling that gap.
CR Builders LLC, a local construction firm, presented the proposal to the council, noting that the roughly $8.9 million effort will be financed largely through the Low‑Income Housing Tax Credit program. The development will occupy a 1.7‑acre parcel on the West End, located just steps from the Billings Veterans Administration Clinic.
“We’re trying to provide not only a good, safe, quality environment for the veterans, but we’re trying to provide a platform for services,” said Don Sterhan, president of CR Builders. He added that the design includes on‑site case management, program coordination, technical assistance and financial training to foster camaraderie and social interaction among residents.
Veteran and former Coast Guard service member Nicolas Weitman, who has experienced homelessness twice, emphasized the personal impact of such housing. “I feel like it’s a need that doesn’t necessarily go away because you’ll have some people that eventually hit a point,” he said, noting that stable housing can quickly slip away for many veterans.
The development will also house support services within the facility, allowing residents easy access to case management and financial counseling without leaving the property.
Billings officials acknowledge a broader housing challenge, noting that the city must identify locations for thousands of new homes over the next two decades. “We found that there was a huge need for it. We haven’t done much for veterans in terms of affordable housing,” Sterhan said, underscoring the project’s significance.
When completed, the 24‑unit community is expected to offer a safe, quality environment and a hub for veteran services, helping more of Billings’ veteran population secure stable, affordable housing.
Sources: ktvq.com
