Columbus, IN — The city of Columbus is launching an initiative aimed at increasing the availability of low to moderate-income single-family housing within the community. The PACT (Providing Affordable Construction and Transformation) program will offer subsidies to encourage new home builders to demolish substandard or dilapidated buildings while creating fresh housing stock. The city has a total investment of $460,000 to award to qualified builders and the program will conclude on December 15, 2026.

This program is designed to provide a short-term boost for builders and developers interested in constructing single-family homes on infill lots in Columbus. The homes must adhere to universal design principles, city codes, and zoning regulations, and should have a final selling price below $300,000. Homes built in new subdivisions are not eligible. Homes with building permits that were started on or after April 1, 2025 are eligible.

The incentive payment will vary based on the type of construction and final price range, and will be issued after the home is sold to an individual buyer. Selling to corporate or LLC buyers is not permitted for this program. “Access to safe, affordable housing is essential to the wellbeing of our community,” said Mayor Mary Ferdon. “We recognize the need for low to moderate-income single-family housing, and this program will allow us to incentivize local developers to increase our housing stock in a way that is sustainable.”

Builders with a good standing in the State of Indiana, a solid credit history, and verified tax filings from the most recent year are welcome to apply for this program. For a comprehensive guide regarding eligibility criteria for the program, please visit www.columbus.in.gov/community-development/pact-program/. For questions and comments regarding PACT, contact Paul W. Smith, Assistant Director of Community Development at psmith@columbus.in.gov/.