Traverse City's housing commission is pushing for more affordable housing.

Commissioners met with a consultant today to see if building a new complex downtown is feasible.

The housing commission would like to build an affordable apartment complex in the parking lot currently used by residents of the Riverview Terrace, the commission's only downtown property.

Commissioners say the need for affordable housing for everyday people and families in Traverse City is great.   

They recently had to close a waiting list for rent assistance after 600 people signed up.
   
Commissioners say finding the funding will be the biggest hurdle.

They'll look to possible funding sources like the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, low income housing tax credits, tax credits for green building, or even private investors.

Erika Waddell and photojournalist Justin DePrekel have the story.