WCDA Celebrates "50 Years of Housing Wyoming Families"!
In 1975, as Wyoming’s communities continued to grow and evolve, the Wyoming Community Development Authority (WCDA) was established with a bold mission: to make homeownership more accessible and affordable for the people of Wyoming. Fifty years later, WCDA remains a driving force behind housing progress across the state—empowering families, supporting communities, and shaping what "home" looks like for generations of Wyomingites.
A Foundation Rooted in Homeownership
At its core, WCDA was built to serve Wyoming residents by raising capital to finance affordable housing. Over the decades, this mission has remained steadfast, with a special focus on first-time homebuyers—those who might need extra support to take that exciting first step into homeownership. Through a mix of low-interest mortgage programs, educational initiatives, and down payment assistance, WCDA has helped thousands of families unlock the doors to their own homes.
Programs That Make a Difference
One of WCDA’s most impactful tools is the Single-Family Mortgage Purchase Program, which offers lower interest rates made possible through the sale of tax-exempt mortgage revenue bonds. This program, WCDA’s largest, continues to be a game-changer for first-time homebuyers across Wyoming.
In addition, down payment assistance programs and homebuyer education opportunities help remove common barriers to buying a home. WCDA understands that sustainable homeownership isn’t just about the purchase—it’s about equipping buyers with the knowledge and support they need to succeed for the long haul.
And it’s not just homeowners who benefit. WCDA administers federal programs like the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and the HOME Investment Partnerships Program, facilitating the development of more than 5,000 units of affordable rental housing statewide.
A Partner in Building Communities
WCDA knows that housing challenges require collaborative solutions. That’s why they work hand-in-hand with developers, non-profits, and local governments to address Wyoming’s evolving housing needs. In communities like Cheyenne, where a mix of new development and aging housing stock presents unique challenges, WCDA’s expertise and resources are more vital than ever.
They’ve also taken a leadership role in encouraging municipalities to adopt strategies from their Statewide Strategic Housing Action Plan, ensuring that local solutions align with broader goals for growth, affordability, and sustainability.
Funding with Independence and Innovation
What’s especially remarkable is that WCDA does all of this without direct state funding. Instead, they rely on innovative financing models and strategic use of federal resources. In 2012, they introduced the HFA Preferred Program, expanding access to affordable financing beyond first-time buyers and leveraging national Housing Finance Agency initiatives.
This combination of independence and innovation has made WCDA a trusted and forward-thinking leader in Wyoming’s housing landscape.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate WCDA’s 50th anniversary, we recognize not just the past five decades of service—but also the crucial role the organization will continue to play in Wyoming’s future. With 32% of the state’s homes now over 50 years old, the need for renewed investment in housing is clear. WCDA is rising to the occasion, championing solutions that will benefit generations to come.
At #1 Properties, we are proud to partner with homebuyers, sellers, and community leaders across Wyoming—and we are deeply grateful for organizations like WCDA, whose commitment to housing opportunity mirrors our own. Here’s to 50 years of opening doors—and many more to come.