Mountain Home’s first new affordable housing in over two decades arrives at a moment of real need. With a median household income of $53,108, the city has felt the pressure of Boise’s rapid growth for years—rising costs, limited options, and a housing stock that hasn’t kept pace with demand. When Mountain Home Mayor Rich Sykes reached out directly to LEAP Housing to address the shortage, CSHQA was brought on as the architect of record to turn that vision into 90 affordable rental units across two phases.
Two phases. One community.
Phase I, completed in October 2024, delivered 60 rental units at 1355 SW Caracara Ave.—two three-story residential buildings totaling 57,136 SF, anchored by a 2,655 SF community clubhouse. Phase II added 30 more units and was completed in April 2026, bringing the full rental inventory online. Income eligibility ranges from 50% AMI to market rate, with 48 of the Phase I units designated for low-income households. Funded primarily through Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, with an $11.1M construction loan from RCAC and support from the USDA, Idaho Housing and Finance Association, and Idaho Department of Commerce, the $19.6M project represents the largest investment in Mountain Home’s affordable housing stock in a generation
Designed for health.
Falcons Landing is LEAP Housing’s first health-focused development. In partnership with the Western Idaho Community Health Collaborative (WICHC) and the Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health, CSHQA’s design team addressed Mountain Home’s three identified community health priorities: mental and behavioral health, chronic disease, and community connection. On-site, residents have access to a food pantry operated by Central District Health, clinic space for community health workers, a community room with a kitchenette, raised garden beds, walking paths, a playground, a fitness room, and a technology center—all connected to Mountain Home’s city pathway system.
Designed for belonging.
Mountain Home’s significant Hispanic and Latinx community was central to the design process. CSHQA worked with cultural consultant Antonio Naranjo to develop an earth- and floral-tone color palette—bright yellows, oranges, and warm earth tones that reflect the area’s agricultural roots—alongside bilingual English/Spanish signage and shared spaces designed to feel welcoming and familiar. Murals throughout the site honor Mountain Home’s deep agricultural history.
“Affordable housing is not just about bricks and mortar,” said Mayor Rich Sykes during the Phase II ribbon cutting in April 2026. “It’s about creating a foundation for dreams to flourish and families to thrive.”
With future phases planned—16 single-family homeownership units and an additional 50–60 LIHTC multifamily rental units—Falcons Landing lays the foundation for sustained investment in Mountain Home’s housing future.
