Building Opportunity in Eastern Colorado: Modular Affordable Housing Comes to Kit Carson

In Eastern Colorado, a transformative housing project has reshaped the small community of Kit Carson. Through a collaborative partnership between Kit Carson Rural Development, Fading West, and EVstudio, two previously uninhabitable lots were reimagined into a vibrant, five-home neighborhood—bringing much-needed housing and long-term community value to the area.

From early concept planning through final occupancy, this team worked closely to deliver a solution that strengthened local infrastructure, expanded housing access, and created new opportunities for current and future residents.

A Thoughtful Mix of Homes Designed for Community Needs

The development includes five new homes, intentionally designed in varied sizes to serve a range of households:

Four homes at approximately 1,220 square feet, offering comfortable, efficient layouts for families and individuals
One 1,600-square-foot home designed to meet Universal Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS), making it fully accessible and eligible for HUD financing

This accessible residence reflects a commitment to inclusive design—ensuring housing options are available to residents of all abilities. With this addition, Kit Carson’s total housing inventory reached 100 homes for a population of roughly 205 residents, representing a meaningful increase in local housing capacity.

Modular Construction: Speed, Quality, and Efficiency

To deliver the project efficiently, the team utilized modular construction in partnership with Fading West. While site work progressed in Kit Carson, the homes were simultaneously built off-site in a controlled factory environment.

This approach provided several key advantages:

Consistent construction quality and precision
Reduced on-site disruption
Shortened overall construction timelines
Greater predictability in cost and scheduling

The result was a faster path from planning to occupancy—without compromising durability or design intent.

Project Timeline: From Concept to Occupancy

November 2021 – Project planning and initial concept development began
June 2022 – Permitting applications submitted
November–December 2022 – Modular fabrication completed at Fading West’s factory
February 2023 – Modules set on foundations in Kit Carson, followed by utility connections, exterior porches, balconies, and garage construction
June 2023 – Homes completed and ready for occupancy, just 19 months after project kickoff

Seeing nearly finished homes set in place was a pivotal moment, quickly turning long-term planning into a tangible neighborhood.

Recognition for Impactful Affordable Housing

In 2024, the project was honored with an Eagle Award, earning People’s Choice recognition from Colorado’s affordable housing community. The award highlights not only the quality of the homes, but also the collaborative effort and positive community impact behind the project.

Strengthening Rural Communities Through Design

This Kit Carson development demonstrates how thoughtful design, strategic partnerships, and modular construction can deliver meaningful housing solutions in rural communities. By combining accessibility, efficiency, and long-term value, the project serves as a model for addressing housing needs across Eastern Colorado and beyond.