Salt Flats Project
This project page acts as a platform for community members to be informed and learn about the upcoming next steps for the development of the Salt Flats property.
Project Overview
The Salt Flats Project is more than just housing — it’s about building the future of Grand Junction. This 21.78-acre site, once underutilized, is being transformed into a neighborhood designed to meet the community housing needs.
At its heart, the Salt Flats Project will deliver between 324 and 550 new homes, blending affordable options with attainable and market-rate homes in both rental and homeownership opportunities for local families. This mix is intentional: by combining public investment with private development, the project creates stability for families and seniors while also encouraging new opportunities for local builders, businesses, and investors.
Why It Matters
In recent years, high interest rates and rising construction costs have increased housing costs across the country. Grand Junction has felt these impacts, leaving fewer options for local renters and buyers. The City is removing barriers to development — investing in the infrastructure, planning, and groundwork that make it easier for the private market to deliver homes. This means developers can focus on building high-quality housing that serves a wide range of people in our community.
A Neighborhood for Everyone
Salt Flats is designed to be a place where neighbors can thrive. With plans for a neighborhood park, open space, and its location near bus stops, jobs, and services means residents this development isn’t just about homes — it’s about creating a community. Residents will have easy access to the things that make life in Grand Junction more affordable.
Community-Driven Growth
This project represents a once-in-a-generation chance to guide growth in a way that benefits everyone. By combining affordable housing with private development, Salt Flats strengthens our economy, supports local businesses, and ensures that Grand Junction remains a place where teachers, nurses, first responders, service workers, and young families can live alongside retirees and professionals.
Want to Learn More?
Learn more about the Salt Flats project and other current initiatives addressing the unhoused in our community, or to request a meeting with the City of Grand Junction Housing staff at housing@gjcity.org or call 970-256-4081.
Want to Learn More?
Learn more about the Salt Flats project and other current initiatives addressing the unhoused in our community, or to request a meeting with the City of Grand Junction Housing staff at housing@gjcity.org or call 970-256-4081.
This project page acts as a platform for community members to be informed and learn about the upcoming next steps for the development of the Salt Flats property.
Project Overview
The Salt Flats Project is more than just housing — it’s about building the future of Grand Junction. This 21.78-acre site, once underutilized, is being transformed into a neighborhood designed to meet the community housing needs.
At its heart, the Salt Flats Project will deliver between 324 and 550 new homes, blending affordable options with attainable and market-rate homes in both rental and homeownership opportunities for local families. This mix is intentional: by combining public investment with private development, the project creates stability for families and seniors while also encouraging new opportunities for local builders, businesses, and investors.
Why It Matters
In recent years, high interest rates and rising construction costs have increased housing costs across the country. Grand Junction has felt these impacts, leaving fewer options for local renters and buyers. The City is removing barriers to development — investing in the infrastructure, planning, and groundwork that make it easier for the private market to deliver homes. This means developers can focus on building high-quality housing that serves a wide range of people in our community.
A Neighborhood for Everyone
Salt Flats is designed to be a place where neighbors can thrive. With plans for a neighborhood park, open space, and its location near bus stops, jobs, and services means residents this development isn’t just about homes — it’s about creating a community. Residents will have easy access to the things that make life in Grand Junction more affordable.
Community-Driven Growth
This project represents a once-in-a-generation chance to guide growth in a way that benefits everyone. By combining affordable housing with private development, Salt Flats strengthens our economy, supports local businesses, and ensures that Grand Junction remains a place where teachers, nurses, first responders, service workers, and young families can live alongside retirees and professionals.
Want to Learn More?
Learn more about the Salt Flats project and other current initiatives addressing the unhoused in our community, or to request a meeting with the City of Grand Junction Housing staff at housing@gjcity.org or call 970-256-4081.
Want to Learn More?
Learn more about the Salt Flats project and other current initiatives addressing the unhoused in our community, or to request a meeting with the City of Grand Junction Housing staff at housing@gjcity.org or call 970-256-4081.
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Meet the Development Team: Brikwell
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During the Request for Proposal (RFP) process, Brikwell was selected as the Master Planner for Salt Flats because of their proven experience and track record. Master planning a large site like Salt Flats is important because it ensures that housing, infrastructure, parks, and transportation all work together as one coordinated community rather than as disconnected projects. It allows for thoughtful design, efficient use of land, and a balance of housing types that reflect the needs of the whole community. A strong master plan also gives private developers clarity and confidence, reducing risk and creating a roadmap for long-term success.
Brikwell and its extended team have delivered or managed over 4,498 housing units, entitled 461 acres, and developed or purchased more than $10.8 billion in assets across the country. Unlike short-term builders, Brikwell is focused on long-term stewardship — building high-quality homes and neighborhoods designed to last. They are not merchant builders; rather, Brikwell is a community-focused developer committed to long-term ownership, high-quality design, and projects that improve lives.
The Ascent at Salt Flats
The first major project under the Salt Flats master plan is the Ascent at Salt Flats — a 144-unit affordable rental community. This development will provide a full mix of unit sizes, from studios to four-bedrooms, serving households earning between 30%–70% of Area Median Income (AMI) with a community average of 58% AMI. Importantly, 44 units will be studios — filling a major gap for individuals and small households — while 36 units will be larger family-sized three- and four-bedrooms, meeting another critical housing need.
The Ascent will also feature a 3,000 sq. ft. Early Childhood Education center with capacity for 60 children, as well as adjacent outdoor play space. With zoning already in place, construction is expected to begin in Spring 2026 and wrap up by Winter 2027.
Looking Ahead: Future Phases
Beyond Ascent, Brikwell has outlined an additional project anticipated as Phase 3, projected at 120 mixed-income units. This phase is proposed to leverage Proposition 123 Concessionary Debt/Equity, with affordability averaging 80% AMI, and a mix of market-rate, workforce, and affordable housing. Completion is anticipated by Summer 2030, with more details to come as planning and financing progress.
As Brikwell emphasized in their proposal, they are committed to a cohesive, long-term vision for Salt Flats that provides homes for families and individuals across a wide range of incomes.
To learn more about Brikwell - Visit their website https://brikwell.com/

During the Request for Proposal (RFP) process, Brikwell was selected as the Master Planner for Salt Flats because of their proven experience and track record. Master planning a large site like Salt Flats is important because it ensures that housing, infrastructure, parks, and transportation all work together as one coordinated community rather than as disconnected projects. It allows for thoughtful design, efficient use of land, and a balance of housing types that reflect the needs of the whole community. A strong master plan also gives private developers clarity and confidence, reducing risk and creating a roadmap for long-term success.
Brikwell and its extended team have delivered or managed over 4,498 housing units, entitled 461 acres, and developed or purchased more than $10.8 billion in assets across the country. Unlike short-term builders, Brikwell is focused on long-term stewardship — building high-quality homes and neighborhoods designed to last. They are not merchant builders; rather, Brikwell is a community-focused developer committed to long-term ownership, high-quality design, and projects that improve lives.
The Ascent at Salt Flats
The first major project under the Salt Flats master plan is the Ascent at Salt Flats — a 144-unit affordable rental community. This development will provide a full mix of unit sizes, from studios to four-bedrooms, serving households earning between 30%–70% of Area Median Income (AMI) with a community average of 58% AMI. Importantly, 44 units will be studios — filling a major gap for individuals and small households — while 36 units will be larger family-sized three- and four-bedrooms, meeting another critical housing need.
The Ascent will also feature a 3,000 sq. ft. Early Childhood Education center with capacity for 60 children, as well as adjacent outdoor play space. With zoning already in place, construction is expected to begin in Spring 2026 and wrap up by Winter 2027.
Looking Ahead: Future Phases
Beyond Ascent, Brikwell has outlined an additional project anticipated as Phase 3, projected at 120 mixed-income units. This phase is proposed to leverage Proposition 123 Concessionary Debt/Equity, with affordability averaging 80% AMI, and a mix of market-rate, workforce, and affordable housing. Completion is anticipated by Summer 2030, with more details to come as planning and financing progress.
As Brikwell emphasized in their proposal, they are committed to a cohesive, long-term vision for Salt Flats that provides homes for families and individuals across a wide range of incomes.
To learn more about Brikwell - Visit their website https://brikwell.com/
Who's Listening
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Housing Manager
Email housing@gjcity.org
Project History
Timeline
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August-November 2023
Salt Flats Project has finished this stageThe City applied for and received a $2.2 million Proposition 123 Land Banking Grant from OEDIT, paired with a $1 million City match. This competitive grant made it possible to acquire the 21.78-acre Salt Flats site.
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November 2023- Letter of Intent - Purchase of the Property
Salt Flats Project has finished this stageA letter of Intent was signed with En-Sim QOF, LLC for the negotiations for the purchase of the 21.78 acre Salt Flats Property.
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April 2024 - Property Begins Subdivision Process
Salt Flats Project has finished this stageEn-Sim, QOF begins the subdivision of 21.78 acres from the full 31+ original acreage enabling the purchase of the property.
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Jan 2025 - Acquisition of the Salt Flats Property
Salt Flats Project has finished this stageThe City received a $2.2 million Proposition 123 grant from the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA) Land Banking Program, which funded, in part, the property’s acquisition.
Additionally, the City provided a $1 million match to secure the CHFA grant. Further supporting the project, the City was recently awarded a $2 million More Housing Now grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) to fund critical public infrastructure improvements on the site. These infrastructure investments will further reduce development costs, ensuring affordability for future residents.
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Jan 2025 - Request for Qualification/Letters of Interest from Developers
Salt Flats Project has finished this stageThe City issued a Request for Qualifications/Letters of Interest from Developers in Jan 2025. 4 developers were selected in May 2025.
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May 2025 - Developers and Projects Selected
Salt Flats Project has finished this stageFour Developers were selected to complete multiple projects across the site. Learn more in the Development Team and Master Planning Section.
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June 18, 2025 - 99 year Land Lease Agreement for VOA/MGL
Salt Flats Project has finished this stageOn June 18, 2025, City Council approved Ordinance 5262 which provided Volunteers of America in partnership with the Grand Junction Housing Authority a 99-year lease for the Northwest parcel of approximately 2.91 acres for the future development of two phases of development. Watch the Council Meeting here.
Learn more about 99 year Land Leases here.
Learn more about Landbanking here.
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July 16, 2025 - City Council Approves Private Activity Bond Allocation to Brikwell for the Ascent Project at the Salt Flats
Salt Flats Project has finished this stageOn July 16, 2025, City Council approved Resolution No. 40-25 and Resolution No. 41-25 , a resolution delegating to the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA) the authority to issue the City's allocation of 2023, 2024, and 2025 Private Activity Bond Volume Cap in the amount of $12,750,115 in support of the Ascent Project, an Affordable Housing LIHTC Development at the Salt Flats. View the City Council Meeting here.
Learn more about Private Activity Bonds here.
Learn more about Low Income Housing Tax Credits here.
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August 1, 2025 - Volunteers of America/MGL submit 4% LIHTC application to CHFA
Salt Flats Project has finished this stageOn August 1, 2025, Volunteers of America in partnership with the Grand Junction Housing Authority and MGL serving as turn key developer submitted their 4% Federal LIHTC application to the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority on behalf of the Senior/Veteran Multifamily Project at the Salt Flats. The 4% LIHTC funding is extremely competitive and often receives 4 applications for every 1 that is selected. Notifications of awards is anticipated in November 2025. If awarded, construction on the project is anticipated to begin by Winter 2027 with completion in Spring 2028.
To learn more about the VOA/MGL Senior/Veteran Project at the Salt Flats click here.
To learn more about LIHTC click here.
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August 18, 2025 - City Council Workshop Update on Salt Flats Project
Salt Flats Project has finished this stageAt the August 18th City Council Workship, City Staff provided a general update on the Salt Flats Project. Watch the Council Workshop here.
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August 20, 2025 - City Council Approves Lease Agreement & Letters of Intent for Brikwell's Ascent Project
Salt Flats Project has finished this stageOn August 20,2025 - City Council approved 3 items pertaining to Brikwell's The Ascent at Salt Flats, a 144-unit mixed-income housing project.
1. Ordinance 5275 - 99-year Land Lease
Ordinance 5275 authorizes the City Manager to execute a lease agreement with Brikwell for 4.42 acres of City-owned property at the Salt Flats site for the Ascent Project. Approval of this ordinance grants Brikwell a 99-year lease for the southern parcel on the west side of the Salt Flats site.This long-term lease provides Brikwell with the site control necessary to apply for competitive funding sources, including state and federal grants and Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) financing. The lease structure supports long-term affordability goals while reducing upfront development costs, with the intent to eventually subdivide the parcels and transition the property into ownership.
Learn more about 99 year Land Leases here.
Learn more about Landbanking here.
2. Resolution 51-25 – Letter of Interest for Equity Partnership
Resolution 51-25 authorizes the City Manager to enter into a Letter of Interest (LOI) with Brikwell to explore a potential partnership for the Ascent at Salt Flats project. Under this framework, the City’s contribution of the parcel’s estimated $2.52 million value would be provided as an in-kind equity investment rather than a cash contribution. In return, the City may receive an ownership interest in the project on future revenues, allowing for potential future returns on the value of the land. Brikwell would be responsible for securing project financing—including LIHTC, private debt, and other sources—as well as assuming construction and operational risks. This LOI establishes parameters for continued discussions but is not a binding agreement. A formal agreement—contingent on the subdivision of the lot and Brikwell securing LIHTC financing—would be finalized through a legally binding contract, subject to City Council approval at a later date.3. Resolution 52-25 – Letter of Interest for Parcel Conveyance Negotiations
Resolution 52-25 authorizes the City Manager to enter into a Letter of Interest (LOI) with Brikwell to initiate negotiations for the potential sale of approximately 4.42 acres within the City-owned 21.78-acre Salt Flats property. The LOI represents Step 2 in the process and outlines the City’s conditional commitment—dependent on subdivision of the lot and Brikwell’s receipt of LIHTC financing—to contribute the parcel’s land value, estimated at $2.52 million, as an in-kind equity investment rather than a cash outlay. In exchange, the City may receive an ownership interest in the development.To learn more about LIHTC click here.
Learn more about Equity Partnership & Parcel Conveyance here
Watch the Council Meeting here.
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Sept. 17, 2025 - City Council Approves Letters of Intent for Rural Homes & Vertikal Homeownership Projects
Salt Flats Project has finished this stage1. Resolution 61-25 – Letter of Intent for Rural Homes
Resolution 61-25 authorizes the City Manager to sign a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Rural Homes for the conveyance of two lots, totaling approximately 3 acres, within the City-owned Salt Flats property. The LOI establishes negotiation terms for a reduced-price purchase of $0, contingent on subdivision and securing Proposition 123 or other financing. Rural Homes intends to subdivide the property further and utilize a fee-simple homeownership model with deed restrictions, rather than an HOA, to simplify mortgage underwriting and reduce monthly costs for buyers. This approach supports long-term affordability while maximizing homeowner equity.2. Resolution 62-25 – Letter of Intent for Vertikal
Resolution 62-25 authorizes the City Manager to sign a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Vertikal for the conveyance of three lots, totaling approximately 3.42 acres, within the Salt Flats site. Vertikal proposes to develop approximately 43 for-sale homes, including 21 deed-restricted affordable/workforce units for households at or below 100% AMI, along with additional attainable and market-rate homes. This LOI establishes the City Managers ability to negotiate terms for Vertikal’s reduced-price purchase of $100, contingent on subdivision approval and securing Proposition 123 or other financing. Vertikal intends to use modular/off-site construction to lower costs and speed delivery, offering a mix of townhomes and detached single-family homes—some with ADUs. The project aims to deliver a high-quality, mixed-income neighborhood with completion targeted by Winter 2027.Learn more about Tools for Affordable and Attainable Homeownership here.
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October 14, 2025-June 1, 2026 Salt Flats Preliminary Plan Approved
Salt Flats Project has finished this stageThe Salt Flats Preliminary Master Plan submitted to City Planning Department for review. Approved on June 1, 2026. See full update here.
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December 2025-June 1, 2026: Filing One: Juniper Grove Submitted, Conditionally Approved.
Salt Flats Project is currently at this stageFiling 1 of the Salt Flats Development called Juniper Grove, consisting of 48 single-family lots, including eight detached homes and 40 duplex units (20 duplex buildings), with one lot reserved for in-home childcare. The application for Filing 1 was submitted on December 17, 2025, and completed the City's review process in approximately 5.5 months.
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July 1, 2026: Consent Agenda: Juniper Grove Project Purchase and Sale Agreement 1st Reading - Grand Junction Homes LLC
this is an upcoming stage for Salt Flats ProjectThe Grand Junction City Council will consider the introduction of an ordinance on July 1, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the City Hall Auditorium authorizing a Purchase and Sale Agreement for approximately 3.3 acres of City-owned property at the Salt Flats site to Grand Junction Homes, LLC for the development of 48 deed-restricted affordable homeownership units. The item is on the Consent Agenda, which consists of routine matters considered together and approved with a single vote unless removed for separate discussion by a Councilmember. The item would set a public hearing for the ordinance on July 15, 2026. Agendas and meeting information are available at: https://grandjunctionco.portal.civicclerk.com/event/3818/files
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July 15: Public Hearing: Purchase and Sale Agreement & Funding Agreement for Juniper Grove by Grand Junction Homes
this is an upcoming stage for Salt Flats ProjectThe Grand Junction City Council will hold public hearings on the following housing-related items during its regular meeting on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the City Hall Auditorium, 250 N. 5th Street, Grand Junction, Colorado. Public hearings provide an opportunity for residents to learn about the proposed actions and offer comments before City Council makes a decision.
Purchase and Sale Agreement for Affordable Homeownership Housing
City Council will consider an ordinance authorizing the sale of approximately 3.3 acres of City-owned property at the Salt Flats site to Grand Junction Homes, LLC for the development of 48 deed-restricted affordable homes for households earning up to 100% of Area Median Income.Development and Funding Agreement for Affordable Homeownership Housing
City Council will consider a resolution authorizing a Development and Funding Agreement with Grand Junction Homes, LLC to support the development of 48 affordable for-sale homes at 450 28 Road through funding for eligible public infrastructure and utility-related costs.To learn more about the land conveyance land to support housing development, click here
To learn more about Juniper Groves Project click here.
To view the July 15 agenda and supporting documents or to virtually watch/participate in the Council Meeting, visit:
https://grandjunctionco.portal.civicclerk.com/event/3819/files
Key Dates
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October 07 2025