Micro Apartments with Affordable Rents Approved for Westgate Community Near West Palm Beach

What's Happening?

Palm Beach County commissioners have approved the development of Neighborlee Living Westgate, a complex featuring 38 micro-apartments in an unincorporated area near West Palm Beach. The project includes 26 micro-apartments of 240 square feet, 10 studios, and two one-bedroom units. Monthly rents will start at $1,200, with over 90% of the units designated for workforce housing. The development aims to provide affordable living options for service workers, recent graduates, and seniors. The complex will include security features and a full-time property manager, with plans to offer amenities like rooftop spaces.

Why It's Important?

This development addresses the critical need for affordable housing in Palm Beach County, offering a solution for low- to moderate-income residents. By providing smaller, cost-effective living spaces, the project supports workforce housing and could serve as a model for future developments. The initiative reflects a growing trend towards micro-apartments as a viable option in urban areas, potentially influencing housing policies and market dynamics. It also highlights the importance of innovative housing solutions in addressing housing shortages and affordability issues.

What's Next?

Neighborlee Living Westgate is expected to open by 2028, with construction set to begin soon. The project could pave the way for similar developments in the region, encouraging other developers to explore micro-apartment models. Local government and community organizations may monitor the project's success to assess its impact on housing affordability and community revitalization. The development could also influence transportation policies, as it plans to offer free bus passes to tenants without cars.