Park City, Utah, a picturesque resort town known for its stunning landscapes and hosting the Sundance Film Festival, is grappling with a critical issue that could threaten its community fabric: affordable housing. As the cost of living continues to soar, local workers, including essential service providers, struggle to find housing within the city limits. The Park City Community Foundation estimates that around 80% of the workforce commutes from surrounding areas, largely due to the exorbitant prices of homes in the region. At the core of this issue is librarian Katrina Kmak, who exemplifies the challenges faced by many residents. During the pandemic, Kmak found herself grappling with the realities of raising her young son in a one-bedroom condo while navigating COVID-19 restrictions. "I had gotten COVID first, my son was about six months old, and they're like you need to quarantine away from your family and use a separate bathroom. I'm like, that's not our situation," Kmak recounted, highlighting the struggles of living in cramped quarters during a crisis. The pressures of her living situation led Kmak to seek assistance through the city’s affordable housing program. "There was the anxiety of being like, oh my goodness, are we gonna still qualify for this?" she said. After applying and getting on the waiting list, she received notifications about available homes. Eventually, she and her family found a place that met their needs, a moment she recalls with bittersweet nostalgia. "It was the first holiday without either of our parents, and I remember telling my husband, 'John, another house just went up. This is our house.'" Kmak’s experience isn’t isolated. The Park City Community Foundation plays a pivotal role in connecting families with local nonprofits that offer financial assistance. According to Joel Zarrow, CEO of the foundation, the overwhelming majority of the city’s workforce cannot afford to live in Park City due to high housing prices. "The median house price here is really out of reach of most families unless you've made a ton of money," he stated. He emphasized that the lack of starter homes, with most properties being luxury options, exacerbates the issue. In response to this ongoing crisis, newly appointed city council member Diego Zegarra has proposed two housing projects that could potentially add over 200 units designed specifically for individuals earning around 60% of the area’s median income. "We're looking to invest immediately in rentals so that our workforce can be closer to the centers of employment," Zegarra explained. His initiative aims not only to provide housing but also to foster a sense of community for those who contribute to the city's economy but find themselves priced out of it. The need for attainable housing extends beyond those at the lowest income levels. There are many residents who earn just above the threshold for assistance and still struggle financially, making it essential to create a range of affordable options. Kmak noted the importance of awareness regarding these resources, stating, "You don't know unless you try. I think so many people would be surprised to see what the parameters of the attainable housing are too. These resources exist for everyone, you know, it's not just for a certain sect of people, it's for everyone who lives here." Zegarra is optimistic about the city’s efforts, revealing that there are two parcels of land under consideration for development. The aim is to break ground on these projects by mid-2024, depending on the progression of planning and permitting processes. "We hope to get these housing projects off the ground halfway through the year, if not by the third quarter," he stated, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the housing crisis. As Park City continues to develop, the balance between preserving its charm and providing affordable living options remains a central concern. The community's response to this dilemma will not only shape the future of the town but will also determine the sustainability of its workforce, which is vital for the city’s economic vitality. The stakes are high as Park City navigates this complex issue, and the outcome will be watched closely by residents, officials, and stakeholders alike. With initiatives like those proposed by Zegarra and the support of organizations like the Park City Community Foundation, there is hope that solutions will emerge to support both the community and its dedicated workers.