(Colorado Newsline) Colorado Governor Jared Polis Friday joined state and local officials for a ribbon cutting ceremony to unveil 12 newly built housing units built for corrections staff in Buena Vista.

The Colorado Department of Corrections collaborated with local developer Fading West Development to build the fully furnished two- and three-bedroom units, which will serve as workforce housing for staff at the state prison in Buena Vista.

“Colorado supports our Department of Corrections workers and these new housing options in Buena Vista are an important way to retain and attract the workforce we need to serve the community,” Polis said in a statement.

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Colorado House Speaker Julie McCluskie, a Dillon Democrat, and CDOC Executive Director Andre Stancil also attended the ribbon cutting.

“Too many corrections officers and DOC employees have struggled to find a place to live where they can afford, and many have been commuting long distances,” McCluskie said in a statement. “This will go a long way toward recruiting and retaining our crucial DOC workforce in Buena Vista and ensuring a higher quality of life for those that live and work here.”

A Newsline story last summer detailed the difficulties staff at the Buena Vista Correctional Complex experienced while paying $200 a month to live in a cubicle at the prison.

CDOC spokesperson Alondra Gonzalez said staff interested in the units can apply through Fading West and follow the developer’s normal move-in and application processes. She said the units are expected to be ready for move in later this month.

Stancil said the department is committed to supporting its workforce.

“These new housing options address immediate needs while contributing to the long-term sustainability and growth of our communities,” Stancil said in a statement. “We are excited to celebrate with our partners in Buena Vista and demonstrate the power of collaboration in advancing the best interests of our communities.”

After the ribbon cutting, Polis — who has made increasing Colorado’s housing supply his top second-term priority — visited another new development in Buena Vista, where 60 low-cost housing units will open next year. The Midland Apartments complex will also include a childcare center.

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