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HIGH RISE HOUSING

The Great Bend Housing Authority High Rise at 1101 Kansas Avenue is a project and income-based Section 8 apartment building. The High Rise has more than 80 units, consisting of one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments. Applicants must meet income guidelines and pass a background check before being determined to be eligible for the program. Once approved to live in the High Rise, the rent is approximately 30% of the household income and electric, water, and trash utilities are included at no additional cost. Residents pay for cable, phone, and internet.

 

The facility is locked evenings, weekends, and holidays with on-site security personnel to ensure safety for the residents. The apartments are unfurnished, but with stove and refrigerator provided. Coin operated laundry is available on the premises. 

INCOME GUIDELINES

Rent is approximately 30% of household income, with income limitations as listed below:

1 Person Households

Income Limit - $34,740

2 Person Households

Income Limit - $39,720

3 Person Households

Income Limit - $44,700

Brick Wall

NEWLY RENOVATED

After more than 50 years, the Great Bend Housing Authority is proud to be renovating all of the 80+ apartments at the High Rise with new cabinets, fixtures, flooring, and finishes. The exposed brick and impressive downtown views are among the many attractions that draw people to live in the beautiful high rise building. 

  • Downtown Living with Small Town Feel

  • Listed on a National Historic Landmarks Registry

  • Secure Building with Full-Time Staff

  • Walking Distance of Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment

  • Subsidized Rates Available for Qualified Section 8 Applicants

  • Beautiful Views & Lots of Natural Light

  • Electric, Gas, Water, and Trash Utilities Included

  • Cable, Phone, and Internet Available at Tenant's Expense

Download an application, fill out our online application, or pick up a paper application from our office at 1101 Kansas Avenue in downtown Great Bend. Call our friendly staff if you have any questions: 620-793-7761.

PHASE TWO COMPLETE

At the end of 2022, we celebrated the completion of Phase One of the massive $16 million renovation happening at The High Rise Apartments. This means that over 80 brand new units are available to our current tenants and the people on our waiting list. While availability changes every day, we encourage you to contact us if you're interested in downtown living at the High Rise. These low-income apartments have been completely renovated inside and out, and offer stunning views with all utilities paid. Browse a few photos from the completed apartments, and check back often for more updates!

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  • How do I apply to live in the High Rise?
    You must complete and submit an application, along with the following documentation for every member of your household: Original social security cards Original government issued driver's license or photo identification Income verification Pay stubs - last 6 consecutive pay stubs for all adults (18 years of age or older) in your household Child support, alimony, legal separation, and divorce papers
  • What is the High Rise?
    The Great Bend Housing Authority owns the High Rise located at 1101 Kansas Ave., Great Bend. The High Rise is a federally funded housing program for people 55 years of age and older, however we can admit 20% of our tenants to those under the age of 55.
  • What are the requirements for eligibility?
    You must meet the income guidelines established by the Dept. of Housing & Urban Development, be 55 years of age or older (20% of our residents can be under age 55), have a good rental history, criminal background, etc.
  • What if I cannot provide a good rental history?
    If the applicant is unable to provide 3 years of acceptable rental history from persons not related to the applicant(s), 3 character reference letters will be required by a person not related to the applicant(s) such as former teacher, employer, minister, etc.
  • How much will my rent be?
    You will pay 30% of your monthly adjusted gross income minus any allowable deductions.
  • Will I be required to pay a security deposit?
    Yes, the security deposit you will be required to pay may not exceed the legal limits set by the Kansas Landlord Tenant Act. The GBHA security deposit is currently $600.00.
  • Can I have a service animal?
    Tenants that require a service animal must return our form signed by a doctor specifying that the tenant needs an animal for their medical condition and how that animal will alleviate their symptoms. Proof must be provided that the pet has had its shots, has been spayed or neutered, and the $250 pet deposit will not required. Service animals still must adhere to city code regulations, the City of Great Bend has a “pooper scooper” rule that must be followed.
  • How long will it be before I am housed?
    There is a chance there will be a waiting list for assistance. Ask our friendly staff what the current estimated wait time is.
  • Is there a limit for overnight guests?
    Yes GBHA residents can only have overnight guests 14 nights per year and they must notify the office prior to the visit or the following day by 10:00 am so that the nights can be documented in their file. Tenants that allow guests to stay in excess of 14 nights per year will be evicted.
  • What payment methods can I use to pay my rent?
    Cash is not accepted. Please understand that all payments must be made in the form of personal check, cashier's check, or money order. This is for your protection as well as ours.
  • What should I do if anything changes while I am on the waiting list?
    Be sure to notify our office in writing immediately, especially if your address changes. We want to be able to keep you posted when openings become available.
  • Can I have a pet?
    If tenants wish to have a pet they must get written approval from GBHA and pay the pet deposit of $300 in full before the pet is allowed in the building. Only one dog, cat or bird is allowed and cannot weigh more than 25 pounds. Proof must be provided that the pet has had its shots and that it has been spayed or neutered.
HighRiseFAQ

$16 Million Renovation

In 2021, the Great Bend Housing Authority broke ground on a $16 million renovation of the entire 12-floor apartment building located in downtown Great Bend. The building was originally constructed in 1971, so the overhaul was much-needed after fifty years of providing affordable housing for low income families in Barton County. Phase one of the renovation was completed in January 2022 and phase two of the renovation was completed at the end of the year. Check out some of the photos of the progress:

“Very well maintained and secure for residents and visitors.”

- Google Review from Susan Gable

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