Chris Hudon
Development Director
With over 25 years shepherding multifamily projects from acquisition through completion, Chris brings deep expertise in navigating California's complex entitlement landscape and creative financing structures. Having overseen more than $150 million in multifamily construction and delivered over 500 units across Colorado and Utah, he combines strategic vision with hands-on execution to transform challenging sites into thriving communities.
A University of Connecticut graduate with roots in both mountain and coastal communities, Chris has mastered the art of assembling multidisciplinary teams and building the long-term relationships essential to successful development. His portfolio spans transit-oriented micro-units, affordable housing in Opportunity Zones, and innovative mixed-use projects that push conventional boundaries. Most recently, he's focused on California's central coast, drawn by the region's progressive housing policies and untapped development potential.
On Building for Impact
Real estate development is an iterative art that demands creative adaptation to site constraints while maintaining project vision. I'm passionate about exploring new building techniques and leveraging evolving public policy to create homes that serve as sanctuaries for individuals and families. Every project is an opportunity to positively impact both people and nature—especially now, when our communities desperately need more attainable housing options.
Why Santa Cruz
After decades in Park City and Denver's development markets, Santa Cruz represents the perfect convergence of progressive housing policy, natural beauty, and genuine community need. The central coast offers incredible opportunities to apply transit-oriented development strategies and innovative financing tools to address the housing crisis. Plus, the ability to mountain bike in the morning and discuss entitlements in the afternoon doesn't hurt.
Outside of Workbench
You'll find Chris exploring Santa Cruz's trails on his mountain bike, heading to the mountains for skiing, casting a line, or working on his latest painting. A father of three grown children, Leadership Park City alumnus, and Urban Land Institute member, he brings the same creative energy to his art that he applies to solving complex development challenges. His annual retreats to Esalen reflect his belief that the best solutions come from balancing intense focus with mindful reflection.
Past Projects
Signalmen (Denver, CO) - 54 micro-units, Opportunity Zone/TOD
The Nightingale (Denver, CO) - 39 attainable condominiums, TOD/CarShare
Iota Fox Station (Denver, CO) - 144 micro-units, industrial-to-residential rezone
Edison at RiNo (Denver, CO) - 277 apartments, brownfield redevelopment
Park 17 (Denver, CO) - 190 apartments
