From Left: HUD Regional Administrator Rick M. Garcia, Yellowstone County Commissioner Bill Kennedy, Billings Mayor Tom Hanel, Housing Authority of Billings Executive Director Lucy Brown

Grand opening in Billings of 32-unit development for families.

On August 30, 2011, the Housing Authority of Billings (HAB) hosted a grand opening ceremony for the Whitetail Run Apartments, a 32-unit development for families at 40-60% of the area median income. HUD Regional Administrator Rick M. Garcia attended the event to recognize the great work taking place across the region and commended local partners for finding creative solutions to the housing challenges faced in Billings.

Housing Authority of Billings Executive Director Lucy Brown coordinated the event and served as the master of ceremonies. Also in attendance were Mayor Tom Hanel, Yellowstone County Commissioner Bill Kennedy, representatives from congressional offices, Housing Authority of Billings board members, and a variety of partners from state and local organizations.

Funding for the $4.7 million project included $2.65 million in HUD tax credit assistance through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which established the federal stimulus program. The balance of the funding was through the Housing Authority of Billings and the Montana Department of Commerce's tax credit program. The City of Billings through their Community Development Block Grant program also made the infrastructure possible for the Whitetail Square subdivision.

The development consists of eight four-plexes with two-, three- and four-bedroom options. There also are three handicap-accessible units and all of the lower-level apartments can be modified for ADA needs. The units are energy efficient and include a high amount of insulation in the walls, forced-air furnaces, Energy Star appliances, and florescent lighting. Additionally, the roofs feature lighter shingles to help reduce heat in the summer.

The Whitetail Run Apartments are strategically located on a 13.77 acre subdivision, close to schools, jobs, businesses, and medical facilities. The development is also on a bus line and bicycle path, further aligning transportation and housing needs and promoting sustainable development in Billings.