Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte and state Rep. Curtis Schomer toured a new workforce housing development in Billings, highlighting progress on 35 homes intended to provide more affordable homeownership opportunities for working families.
The South Hills Commons development will feature two- and three-bedroom houses available to qualifying buyers earning between 60% and 140% of the area’s median household income.
The homes will be subject to deed restrictions designed to preserve affordability for future buyers, targeting workers such as teachers, nurses, police officers and other middle-income residents who have faced rising housing costs.
“One of my main priorities since taking office has been making the American dream more attainable for Montanans,” Gianforte said. “Working with the legislature, we’ve led Montana to lead the nation in practical reforms to increase the supply of housing and support a stronger workforce.”
The development is part of a broader effort to increase Montana’s housing supply as population growth and home prices have made ownership more difficult for working households. The announcement did not provide expected purchase prices, construction costs or a completion date.
Schomer emphasized the need to develop the skilled workforce required to build homes. “In order to meet construction demand, we also need skilled carpenters, plumbers, and electricians,” he said.
During the 2025 legislative session, Schomer sponsored House Bill 336, expanding apprenticeship pathways to 32 occupationally licensed professions, and House Bill 908, which expanded the job growth tax credit to encourage employers to hire and train apprentices.
Gianforte has supported land-use reforms allowing accessory dwelling units in more areas, expanding opportunities for duplexes and multifamily housing, and streamlining local permitting.
Montana recently ranked among the top five states for housing freedom in a Cato Institute assessment that cited state land-use reforms.
Supporters say additional housing choices and simplified approvals can increase supply, while the long-term effect on prices depends on construction keeping pace with demand. Once complete, South Hills Commons will add 35 deed-restricted homeownership opportunities in Billings.
By: Montana Newsroom wire