City of Fort Collins
The positive impact of the Northern Hotel in Fort Collins is tremendous.
Situated within the Old Town Fort Collins Historic District and fronting two primary intrastate thoroughfares, revitalization of the Northern Hotel has fostered civic pride, introduced a residential component to the Central Business District, and provided additional commercial space on the ground floor. Where once a dilapidated building stood, today stands a vibrant "new" section of Old Town Fort Collins. Exciting tenants such as coffee shops, confectioners, and locally-owned sandwich, home furnishings, and jewelry stores bring many customers to an area that was previously rarely traveled.
Equally important is the impact this project has had for Fort Collins' senior citizens who are a large part of the Fort Collins community. The community has been widely recognized as a retirement destination, creating a pronounced need for all housing options. Within Northern Colorado, numerous attempts to revive historic buildings for mixed-use have produced very limited success. This project not only serves as a model within the region and fulfills the affordable housing component, but, offers tenants close proximity to shopping, dining, entertainment, and provides 24-hour secure access while maintaining the lobby and vestibules as public space with ground-floor commercial tenants. In addition, owners of several properties within the district and adjoining neighborhoods have initiated efforts to transform upper-level spaces for residential use.
Today, all of the affordable apartments are occupied, and the Northern Hotel's popularity has drawn a waiting list with the Fort Collins Housing Authority as a partner in helping to provide affordable living for seniors.
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