North Carolina Construction News
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded $40 million in Choice Neighborhoods Implementation (CNI) grant funding to Durham.
Federal funding will assist with ‘Forever Home, Durham,’ an ongoing program to create affordable opportunities for renters and homeowners through new construction and renovation projects.
“Downtown Durham is booming with growth, but the reality on the ground is that there are two downtowns,” says Anthony Scott, chief executive officer of the Durham Housing Authority. “The newer part is disproportionately wealthy, White, and growing, while the edges are lower-income communities of color that are shrinking in the gentrification pressures.
“The Choice Neighborhood Implementation Grant will help us bring those two together, further bridging the gap and restoring Durham’s community, forever.”
CNI funds will go towards the revitalization of Durham’s existing 519 East Main + Liberty Street Apartments, and development of multiple other DHA, city, and county-owned properties in the central neighborhood. The plan includes ground-floor retail, a new community park and green spaces, a new community center, and new roads.
“It has been well recognized that we are in a housing crisis, and I applaud the DHA and the City of Durham for pursuing opportunities and solutions for providing affordable housing so our residents can thrive,” said Durham Mayor Elaine O’Neal. “The Choice Neighborhoods Implementation grant pushes our goals forward, continuing to transform Durham as the city rapidly grows. I’m looking forward to seeing these critical funds directly benefit our community.”
The Choice Neighborhoods initiative supports communities through an emphasis on linking housing improvements with comprehensive social services and physical neighborhood improvements.