Workforce Housing

Workforce housing is a relatively new term that is increasingly popular among planners, government administrators and housing activists, and is gaining cachet with home builders, developers and lenders. "Workforce housing" can refer to almost any housing, but always refers to "affordable housing".

"Workforce housing has emerged in recent months as a concern not only of housing advocates but also policy makers and employers. Even the term itself—workforce housing—was rarely heard until recently. But with housing costs in many areas increasingly exceeding the financial reach of many low- to moderate-wage workers, people are taking notice." (Workforce Housing: The New Economic Imperative? - By Carol A. Bell)

Workforce Development

Proclaimed to be one of the largest workforce development in Palm Beach County history, the MerryPlace development is a truly unique workforce housing community. Workforce Development – Residents should have specific training on how to apply and keep a job. The development of MerryPlace as affordable workforce housing is one of the last opportunities to meet this critical need within the downtown area of the City of West Palm Beach.

MerryPlace has the tremendous advantage of an urban infill location. It is directly proximate to public transportation, public amenities, government offices and business centers. It is anticipated that City, County, and State civil service employees that work in the downtown area will be highly attracted to the site.

The ownership component of MerryPlace is designated as “workforce housing” and homes will be available to families earning no more than 140% of area median income. For sale units include 52 spacious condominium apartments, 46 townhomes (most with garage) and sixteen detached single-family homes. All units will be deed restricted to remain owner occupied.