While other school districts in Colorado have made significant housing investments for their staff, this 35-unit purchase is one of the largest by number of units acquired at one time in Colorado by a school district— and among the largest by value. The closing price is $10 million, with a $75,000 credit from the seller.

Located within city limits and a 4-minute drive from downtown Durango on U.S. Highway 160 West, Lightner Creek Apartments includes 35 units – 10 studios, 13 one-bedrooms, and 12 two-bedrooms – along with 12 garages and 15 storage units available for rent. The property is located directly across from the Twin Buttes mountain biking trailhead and backs up to tall pines alongside Lightner Creek.

“This strategic investment in workforce housing represents a creative solution that benefits everyone,” said DSD Superintendent Dr. Karen Cheser. “By using bond funds to secure affordable housing units for our employees, we're not only supporting the financial wellbeing of our teachers and staff, but we're also strengthening our school district's stability and our community's economic foundation.” 

In November 2024, Durango voters overwhelmingly passed the Investing in Our Schools Bond, which allocated $20 million for employee housing. DSD leaders say this purchase is the first major step toward delivering on that commitment. “Voters trusted us with this responsibility, and in less than a year since the bond’s approval, we’re proud to show results,” said Cheser. 

More than 200 district staff reported in a 2025 survey that the high cost of housing is one of their greatest stressors and a significant barrier to recruiting and retaining quality employees. With the Lightner Creek Apartments purchase, the district will begin offering affordable rental options to a portion of its workforce, with the goal of having units ready by fall 2026 – or sooner. An advisory group of educators will give feedback on rental rates and selection criteria.

“This investment isn’t just about housing – it’s about ensuring students have consistent, quality instruction from teachers who can focus on education rather than worrying about where they’ll live,” said Cheser. “When educators can afford to live in the community they serve, they’re more engaged, more available for students and families, and more likely to make long-term commitments to our district.”

FAQ: Staff housing at Lightner Creek Apartments

Is this purchase connected to the Lightner Creek Mobile Home Park?

No. The Lightner Creek Mobile Home Park is completely separate and not part of this purchase. The district’s purchase includes only one apartment building at Lightner Creek Village, along with an adjacent building of garages and storage units.

What happens to the current tenants living in the apartments?

Some tenants have leases that extend through September 2026. All tenants may stay in their units through their lease terms. For those whose leases ended earlier, the seller—at the district’s request—offered extensions through May 31, 2026, to give more time to plan a move. Ultimately, all 35 units will transition to staff housing, as bond funding requires the apartments to be reserved only for district employees.

Will there be upgrades to the apartments before staff move in?

Inspections showed no major issues, but the district plans to make improvements over time. Updates may include exterior work and targeted interior upgrades such as fresh paint, flooring, and appliances.

What will rent cost for teachers and staff?

Rental rates will be set below market levels but are not finalized yet. Early estimates suggest studios may range from $700-$800 per month. The district will form a Housing Advisory Committee to recommend rental rates, eligibility, and prioritization criteria. Staff housing is expected to be available by fall 2026, if not sooner.

How does this help with staffing challenges?

Housing won’t change staffing goals, but it will make it easier to recruit and retain educators—especially for hard-to-fill positions and when attracting candidates from outside the area.

Why is the district investing in housing instead of salaries?

Bond funds can only be used for capital needs such as buildings and infrastructure—not salaries. Providing affordable housing is one way the district can directly support employees. More than 400 staff responded to a housing survey in early 2025, and over 200 expressed interest in workforce housing. While 35 units won’t meet every need, it’s a meaningful start.

How does this fit into the larger housing picture in Durango?

Workforce housing is a statewide issue. A recent Keystone Policy Center report found:

• 58% of educators are interested in district-provided affordable housing.

• 70% would feel comfortable with their school district as their landlord.

• In some districts, over half of educators spend more than 40% of their income on housing.

Locally, the district has been in discussions with city and county leaders, developers, and private citizens about affordable housing. While many ideas are still years away from being built, this purchase allows the district to provide housing now—meeting urgent needs and fulfilling a bond promise within a year of voter approval.