Craft Companies, LLC, a Colorado-based real estate firm specializing in the creation of livable, sustainable communities, has broken ground on Independence, a new residential conservation community in Elbert County, Colorado.
When completed, the development will include 1,011 acres with 920 single-family residential homes, parks, and a school site. In addition, more than 433 acres will be preserved in a contiguous natural state to improve wildlife habitat, maintain the rural environment of the county. The sustainable community will employ innovative conservation methods to preserve open space, water, energy and other natural resources.
Independence will offer a range of lot sizes, residential densities, and housing options for a variety of buyers, including families, teachers, government employees and first responders. Craft Companies expects the project to generate 4,000 local jobs ranging from carpenters to historical preservation consultants to hydrologists to solar panel experts.
“We have been eagerly anticipating today’s groundbreaking celebration since the Independence community was unanimously approved by the three-member Board of Elbert County Commissioners,” explained Tim Craft, Principal, Craft Companies.
“As the first community of its kind in Colorado, we hope it will serve as a model for sustainable development moving forward and that all Elbert County residents will directly benefit from our sustainable, low impact development practices, in addition to the open space and diverse mix of home types,” added Craft.
The Independence community will treat and recycle water at the highest level approved by the state by significantly decreasing the consumptive use per household. Curved streets will preserve community views and reduce vehicle speeds, while miles of trails and neighborhood pocket parks will promote community connectivity.
The community will also include a rehabilitated and preserved homestead, community center and museum.
