100 affordable homes cut 3.3M vehicle miles in Park City, new study shows

Photo: Distance view of Old Town Park City in the fall (1)

PARK CITY, Utah—The Park City Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, in partnership with Mountainlands Community Housing Trust, has released its Affordable Housing Economic Impact Analysis, highlighting the economic and community benefits of affordable housing across the Wasatch Back. It outlines key findings that will inform the Chamber’s upcoming initiatives to support both seasonal and local workers.

The analysis shows the impact of 100 affordable housing units on the local economy and environment, including:

• 66,000 commute hours eliminated annually, saving $1.2 million in time.
• 3.3 million vehicle miles reduced annually, resulting in a $75,000 reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
• $180,000 in local revenue generated through state per-pupil funding for 40 school-aged children.
• $150,000 in added value from increased volunteer labor contributions.
• 173 positions filled, contributing $43.1 million in economic impact.
• $4.2 million in local household spending.
• $73,000 in new local sales tax revenue.
• $186,000 in new local property tax revenue.

“As we approach the peak season, this report is especially timely, shedding light on the critical role affordable housing plays in sustaining our community,” said Scott House, vice president of partner services at the Park City Chamber & Visitors Bureau. “While analyzing the key impacts, it’s essential to highlight the opportunity costs as well. For example, if we heavily rely on in-commuters, who currently contribute to 70% of our employment growth, we face additional expenses, such as the need for parking.”

The report underscores the importance of affordable housing initiatives, such as the Chamber’s collaboration with Mountainlands Community Housing Trust and Rossignol to relaunch the Workforce Employer Rental Incentive Program (WE RIP). The program offers incentives for landlords who rent to local workers, including a choice of Rossignol alpine skis, Nordic skis or a snowboard and bindings, as well as a one-week pass to HOTWORX. Last year, WE RIP incentivized 12 housing units, providing 34 beds, and this year it aims to increase that number to between 40 and 50 beds.

In addition, the Chamber has renewed its partnership with Slopeside Village, offering a 10% discount on leases, special month-to-month lease terms, and waived short-term lease fees of $200 through Oct. 31.

For more information about affordable housing programs, including landlord applications and rental inventories, visit Mountainlands’ website. More details about the Chamber’s resources can be found on their website.