Photo of Creek's End courtesy of UCHealth Yampa Valley Medical Center.

As housing costs continue to rise in Steamboat Springs, finding affordable, stable housing has become an increasingly challenging issue for workers in the community – particularly those in essential roles like healthcare. UCHealth Yampa Valley Medical Center has taken a proactive approach to this problem with the development of Creek’s End, a housing complex designed specifically for its employees.

Located at the end of Walton Creek, Creek’s End is not just a place to live – it’s a long-term investment in both the hospital’s workforce and the future of Steamboat. The complex is part of YVMC’s strategy to support the recruitment and retention of medical and support staff by providing affordable, high-quality housing.

Creek’s End features two three-floor buildings that collectively offer 42 units. These units include six 1-bedroom, 24 2-bedroom, and 12 3-bedroom apartments, all designed with contemporary finishes and equipped with modern appliances. Each unit includes washers and dryers, stainless steel appliances, private balconies or patios and even pet-friendly accommodations for an additional fee. Rent is subsidized based on household income, making it more accessible for employees with varying financial situations. Since opening, the complex has already filled 76% of its available units.

For many of the hospital’s employees, including those in departments like IT, engineering, housekeeping and nursing, Creek’s End represents an opportunity to live more comfortably without the stress of an uncertain housing market. “We wouldn’t be able to stay in the valley if we didn’t have this option,” says Paulina Lohr, a financial counselor at YVMC, who recently moved into the complex.

The application process is straightforward, requiring full-time (a minimum of 32 hours per week) and in-person employment at YVMC and not owning residential property in the area. Those accepted into the program benefit from subsidized rent that is based on their income, ensuring that housing costs remain manageable.

“What makes Creek’s End stand out is the stability it offers to employees, particularly in a town where rent prices can be cost-prohibitive and housing options are limited. Unlike traditional rental agreements, Creek’s End offers long-term housing that is not subject to change in the near future,” says YVMC communications manager Lindsey Reznicek. Employees are eligible to stay in their units as long as they continue to meet the eligibility requirements and adhere to their rental agreements. “This stability has a profound impact on quality of life, as employees no longer have to worry about the uncertainty of lease renewals or rent costs increasing out of the blue,” she says.

For hospital workers like Paulina and her family, the housing opportunity has been life-changing. “We’re able to live in Steamboat and settle down, which was something we didn’t think was possible before – it’s a dream come true.”

Paulina Lohr, a financial counselor at YVMC, and her family moved into their Creek's End unit in early December. Photo by Gavin Liddell.

The community at Creek’s End also fosters a sense of camaraderie among the residents. “We see each other at the grocery store or around town. It feels like a little family,” Paulina adds. While Creek’s End is already filling up quickly – especially the one-bedroom units, which have a waitlist, there are still opportunities available for those seeking larger units. UCHealth’s efforts to provide affordable housing for its staff are a model for other businesses in the area, especially given the rising demand for housing in Steamboat Springs.

“Employer-provided housing is essential, especially in a town like Steamboat, where so many people rely on seasonal work or low-wage jobs,” Paulina says.

In addition to fostering a sense of community and stability, the housing initiative has also helped ease transportation issues for many employees. Paulina, for example, is able to walk to work most days, and her husband walks or takes the bus to his job on the mountain. For many, being able to live close to their workplace reduces the need for long commutes, further improving work-life balance.

UCHealth’s initiative at Creek’s End is an important step toward addressing the housing crisis in Steamboat, particularly for essential workers who are often priced out of the local market. Creek’s End isn’t just a place to live – it’s a testament to the value of investing in people, both for their well-being and for the success of the organizations they serve.