By Paulina Pineda | Arizona Republic
As Tempe residents share their city with one of the nation’s largest universities, city officials have sought ways to address a lack of affordable housing in the downtown area. However, one of the latest solutions raises legal questions.
A planned apartment complex in downtown Tempe proposes to restrict renters under 21 to ease the Tempe City Council’s concerns that it would be overrun by Arizona State University students — because of its location and cheaper price point — instead of being an affordable option available for working adults.
Hilo Tempe, an 11-story tower planned for the southeast corner of Mill Avenue and Seventh Street, proposes a unique concept aimed at providing more affordable rent. Forty percent of the 122 units would be co-living apartments available through a “rent by bedroom” model where tenants would have their own private bedroom, small living space and bathroom, but share a kitchen with other tenants.
