HOUSING PRESERVATION

Our housing preservation efforts focus on protecting and extending the life of existing homes in our region that are affordable on local wages. As housing costs rise and aging properties fall into disrepair, preserving what we already have is critical to ensuring long-term affordability and stability for our neighbors.

Through strategic acquisitions, rehabilitation projects, and property management, we work to maintain safe, dignified housing, especially for households who might otherwise be displaced. Preservation is a key part of our commitment to keeping Southwest Montana a place where everyone can afford to live and thrive.

Aerial view of a residential neighborhood with single-story houses, mobile homes, trees, and parking lots on a sunny day with clear skies.

Belgrade Trailer Court

In February 2024, we acquired the 20-unit Belgrade Trailer Court to prevent redevelopment and preserve affordable housing in the Gallatin Valley. This acquisition protected long-term residents from displacement and secured one of the few remaining parks in the region. Looking ahead, HRDC is exploring two long-term preservation options: continuing to own and manage the property or supporting residents in forming a Resident-Owned Cooperative (ROC).

Exterior view of a modern two-story apartment building with green siding, black balcony railings, and an accessible ramp at the entrance. A parking lot with cars and a handicap parking sign are in front.

Big Sky Villas

In 2017, we acquired Big Sky Villas, a 24-unit Rural Development property in Belgrade, to preserve critical Rental Assistance and ensure long-term affordability amid a rising housing market. Originally built in 1985, the property underwent a full renovation in 2017, including interior and exterior upgrades and the addition of an ADA-accessible unit. This preservation effort was supported by Housing Tax Credits, HOME funds, Rural Development, and local bank partners.

Newly constructed beige apartment units with white doors, large windows, and a small paved walkway in front, shaded by a nearby tree on a sunny day.

Summit Apartments

In 2025, we completed a full renovation of the Summit Place Apartments—an eight-unit development in Livingston that provides housing for individuals with mental disabilities. The project included gutting and updating all units, adding an eighth apartment by converting a laundry area, and installing new appliances, flooring, bathrooms, heating/cooling systems, and ADA enhancements. These upgrades not only extended the property’s life but also preserved vital rent subsidies.

Backyard with a large, leafless tree, a beige house with a covered patio, outdoor furniture, and a grassy area with fallen leaves.

Colorado Apartments

In 2024, we completed the renovation of the eight-unit Colorado Apartments—affordable homes for low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities—extending their lifespan by 30 years. Funded primarily through a Montana Department of Commerce HOME award, with support from the City of Belgrade and other partners, the project includes new appliances, heating and cooling systems, ADA enhancements, improved siding, parking, and updated common areas.

Brick building with a green awning that reads "Boulevard Apartments", stairs leading up to glass doors, and leafless bushes in front.

Four Property Acquistion & Rehabilitation

To preserve affordability across 240 HUD-subsidized homes, we led the acquisition and rehabilitation of four properties in Bozeman and Livingston: Darlinton, Boulevard, Miles, and Sherwood Apartments. Completed in 2021 using Low-Income Housing and Historic Tax Credits, this effort protected long-term housing for residents on fixed incomes, including many older adults and longtime community members.

Learn more about our community development work by emailing
community@thehrdc.org.