Colorado Lawmakers Urged to Pass HB 1308 to Expand Affordable Housing
Denver, Colorado — Colorado legislators face mounting pressure to approve House Bill 1308, a pivotal proposal aimed at easing the state’s historic housing crunch by allowing the division of residential lots. Advocates say this move could unlock urgently needed affordable homes for thousands of Coloradans NOW.
Jesselina Cordova, a Denver homeowner and Habitat for Humanity beneficiary, is rallying support for the bill. Cordova emphasized that HB 1308 would open doors for attainable homeownership by enabling one residential lot to legally split into two where appropriate. This could dramatically increase housing supply within existing neighborhoods without altering their character.
“I am fortunate to own a home in Habitat’s High Street Community,” said Cordova. “Like many young Coloradans, I once thought homeownership was out of reach. HB 1308 offers real hope for families like mine to stay rooted where we live and work.”
Housing Crisis Spurring Innovative Solutions
Habitat for Humanity Metro Denver has been on the front lines, proving that smaller and split lots can produce quality affordable homes. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Habitat for Humanity Vail Valley doubled its home production — from 20 units over two years to 40 planned in the next two years — demonstrating how thoughtful land use can deliver results fast.
However, entrenched zoning and land-use rules remain a barrier. Outdated regulations hike land costs and limit how many homes builders can place on residential land. HB 1308 would update these policies, enabling more efficient land use while preserving neighborhood appeal and preventing displacement.
Why HB 1308 Matters Now
Colorado’s housing market has seen increased demand with skyrocketing land prices placing homeownership out of reach for many middle- and lower-income families. The bill promises to reduce land costs by allowing more homes on the same land footprint, translating into more affordable housing options.
For families, this policy could mean stability for children to live close to schools and for older residents to downsize without leaving their communities. For developers and nonprofits like Habitat, it means the ability to build more homes quickly.
Voices From the Ground
“Housing is more than just shelter — it is about community roots, stability, and predictability,” said Cordova. “HB 1308 will empower people like me to build a future here, not just rent indefinitely.”
Habitat’s success stories underscore the viability of split lots. Their High Street homes in Denver’s Cole neighborhood showcase accessible design on smaller parcels, while Habitat for Humanity Vail Valley’s Stratton Flats project in Gypsum illustrates rapid scaling of affordable housing production.
Next Steps and What to Watch
The Colorado Legislature is currently debating HB 1308, with votes expected soon. Supporters urge lawmakers to seize this chance to expand affordable ownership amid ongoing housing struggles. Critics worry about neighborhood changes, but advocates stress the bill’s safeguards that prevent disruption to community character.
Passing HB 1308 could set a precedent for smart land use policies nationwide, as housing affordability remains a growing challenge across the United States.
For Colorado residents and stakeholders, this vote is a critical moment to redefine housing access for the future.
Keep following The Colorado Daily for live coverage of HB 1308 developments as the Legislature moves forward.
