Driven Development
Driven Development is a nonprofit organization based in Kansas City that focuses on addressing the urgent affordable housing crisis in the region. Originating from an initial initiative aimed at creating rent-to-own housing, the organization pivoted to broader housing solutions due to rising construction costs and interest rates. Supported by early backing from the Van Tuyl family and connected to VanTrust Real Estate, Driven Development specializes in creating sustainable, affordable housing options for low to moderate-income families and essential workers. Their projects include renovating apartment buildings, developing infill housing inspired by Kansas City’s historic architecture, and forming strategic partnerships to expand their impact. Committed to community input and transparency, Driven Development strives to eliminate profit motives from their housing developments and prioritize accessibility for those most in need.
News Summary
Driven Development, a new nonprofit in Kansas City, aims to tackle the affordable housing crisis by renovating apartment buildings and creating more affordable living options. Affiliated with VanTrust Real Estate, the initiative offers prices in line with area median incomes and seeks to eliminate profit motives in housing developments. With a current gap of 64,000 affordable units in the region, Driven Development focuses on sustainable solutions to support low- and moderate-income families.
Kansas City is witnessing the emergence of a new nonprofit organization, Driven Development, which aims to address the urgent affordable housing crisis in the metro area. This initiative focuses on creating and maintaining affordable housing options for community members who are struggling to find suitable accommodations as market rates continue to rise.
Connected to the established developer VanTrust Real Estate, Driven Development has commenced renovation on two 36-unit apartment buildings: Dutch Hill in Longfellow and Plaza 36 in Rockhill. At Dutch Hill, studio apartments are available for $800 per month, while two-bedroom units are listed at $1,100. Plaza 36 offers two-bedroom apartments at a more affordable rate of $900 per month. The pricing for these units aligns with Driven Development’s mission to serve individuals and families with household incomes ranging from 50% to 80% of the area median income, which translates to between $33,000 and $89,000 for a family of four.
The need for such initiatives is underscored by the current gap of approximately 64,000 affordable rental units in the Kansas City region, compounded by a median gross rent of around $1,200. Housing prices are also on the rise, with average home prices in Johnson County reaching $508,000 and sale prices peaking at $557,000. Driven Development intends to ensure that individuals across various income levels, including essential workers like teachers, first responders, and healthcare staff, are able to find affordable housing.
One of the organization’s goals is to eliminate profit motives from their housing developments, prioritizing affordability over profit. This unique approach aims to create sustainable housing solutions for the community. Plans are already underway for an infill project featuring 10 three-story walk-ups, inspired by Kansas City’s historic architecture. This innovative design also aims to integrate seamlessly into the existing urban landscape.
Additionally, the Port KC Board of Commissions has approved a financial incentive plan that will immensely benefit this effort, providing $3.1 million in property tax exemptions for the Linwood project. Driven Development is actively working to expand its impact by partnering with organizations such as the Urban Neighborhood Initiative to construct three new homes in the Wendell-Phillips neighborhood. Moreover, they have signed a letter of intent with Johnson County to explore collaborative housing developments that can further address the regional crisis.
The genesis of Driven Development arose from an earlier initiative focused on creating a rent-to-own nonprofit. However, due to escalating construction costs and interest rates, the organization pivoted to a broader focus on addressing immediate affordable housing needs. Initial backing from the Van Tuyl family, who are well-connected to the Kansas City community, will provide essential support as the organization seeks out further philanthropic contributions.
Driven Development emphasizes a clear distinction from its developer counterpart, VanTrust, to maintain credibility and community trust, which is vital for the success of their mission. Currently, the organization is in communication with potential property owners in Johnson County regarding prospective housing developments, although specific locations have not yet been disclosed.
In response to growing community concerns about gentrification, Driven Development is committed to actively seeking local input for its projects. This outreach approach aligns with their overarching goal of ensuring that affordable housing is made readily available to those who need it the most.
As Driven Development continues to expand its footprint in Kansas City, it stands poised to make a meaningful impact on the affordable housing landscape, providing hope to families and individuals struggling in the current housing market.
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