Workshops are planned to detail a new program intended to promote the construction of accessory dwelling units to alleviate a shortage of affordable housing in Grand Junction.

An April 26 workshop is full. But another workshop is set for 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. May 2 in the HR training room at Grand Junction City Hall. Additional workshops will be offered on first-come, first-served basis.

Workshops are free, but participants must register at

https://www.gjcity.org/FormCenter/Community-Development-14/ADU-Workshop-Sign-Up-103.

The Grand Junction City Council approved the program and allocated $250,000 to promote the construction of 16 to 26 additional accessory dwelling units over the next year. The program provides incentives to support the construction of accessory dwelling units within or attached to existing structures as well as units detached from principal structures, but built on permanent foundations.

The program features two tiers: one for those building new ADUs and one for properties occupied by owners.

For the first tier, the city will pay development impact fees as well as wastewater and city water plant investment fees. In exchange, the ADU must be built within one year and made available as a long-term rental for five years.

In the second tier, properties occupied by owners with household incomes of less than 140 percent of the area median will receive an additional incentive up to a total of $15,000. The owner must commit to an additional two-year term — seven years total — to operate the ADU as a long-term rental and live onsite.

Tamra Allen, community development director for the City of Grand Junction, said the program will help in providing more housing options for residents, including firefighters, police officers and teachers. ADUs also offer homeowners a way to earn additional income, Allen said.