Atlanta leaders and housing advocates cut the ribbon last week on two new affordable housing projects in the English Avenue neighborhood.
Why it matters: The newest 57 units mark another step toward Mayor Andre Dickens’ goal to build or preserve 20,000 affordable housing units by 2030.
Driving the news: The projects — 839 Joseph E. Boone Blvd. and 646 Echo St. — will be available to families making 30% to 80% of the annual median income.
- For a family of four, that ranges from $34,260 to $91,360.
Zoom in: The Boone project has 33 affordable units above ground-floor retail space that can accommodate three businesses while Echo Street includes 24 units.
- The layout ranges from studio apartments to three-bedroom units.
What they’re saying: John Ahmann, president and CEO of the Westside Future Fund, which developed the apartment units, said Friday that both projects were built on vacant and blighted property.
- Ahmann also said the projects represent a $16.4 million investment.
- City Councilman Byron Amos, who represents the neighborhood, said the projects “are a shining example of what happens when we choose restoration over displacement.”
- “Developments like these represent more than just new buildings,” he said. “They represent stability, dignity and commitment to making sure longtime residents can remain and thrive in our neighborhoods as they help build them.”
Context: The two projects stem from the Westside Land Use Framework, a development guide compiled with the help of residents who provided input on how to sustain equity as the neighborhood grows…