Sheridan RV park owner selling property, leaving dozens to find new homes

An RV Park in Sheridan to Close for New Apartment Complex

After decades of providing low-cost housing, the Flying Saucer RV Park in Sheridan is set to close down to make room for a new apartment complex. The closure will displace dozens of residents, highlighting the ongoing challenge of affordable housing in Colorado.

The Sheridan City Council approved the rezoning of the 16-acre park at the intersection of West Hampden Avenue and South Bryant Street in November. Garrett Companies, based in Indiana, will be developing a seven-building, 362-unit apartment complex on the site, replacing the 162 spots for recreational vehicles and tiny homes.

The current owners of the property, who have owned it for 75 years, are expected to finalize the deal with Garrett Companies by the end of June. This means that residents will need to find new housing by then.

Anne Whipple, a member of the family that has run the business for generations, expressed the difficulty of the decision to sell the property. The family has long been dedicated to providing a safe and quiet community for tenants in Sheridan. However, the financial burden of maintaining the park has become unsustainable, leading to the sale.

Steve Ohlfest, a long-time resident of the park, made efforts to save Flying Saucer by rallying support and exploring alternatives with other mobile home park owners. Unfortunately, the closure of the park leaves him and his wife uncertain about their next living arrangements.

Garrett Companies has pledged to assist residents with finding new housing options and applying for social services. The company aims to prioritize the well-being of residents, especially those in need.

Despite efforts to save the park, the rezoning application met city criteria and was approved to address the growing housing needs in Sheridan. The new apartment complex will offer market-rate rents, with no requirement for affordable housing units.

While the closure of Flying Saucer RV Park may be inevitable, concerns remain about the fate of its residents and the lack of affordable housing options in the area. The transition to a new housing situation will be challenging for many, underscoring the ongoing issue of housing affordability in Colorado.

As the community grapples with this transition, the closure of Flying Saucer serves as a reminder of the ongoing housing challenges faced by many residents in the region. The hope is that efforts will be made to support those affected by the closure and address the broader issue of affordable housing in Colorado.