Blount County is preparing to welcome new single-family homes in a significant development aimed at tackling the affordable housing shortage, thanks to a substantial state grant. The Foothills Community Development Corporation (FCDC), a prominent organization in the region, secured a HOME grant from the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA), amounting to $813,200. This financial injection is earmarked for constructing four new single-family homes designed to cater to the growing demand for affordable housing in the area. As reported by WATE, Bobby Eason, the Executive Director of FCDC, underscored that Blount County has experienced a notable surge in growth in recent years.

Building on the momentum of past successes, residents like Patrick Layne offer a narrative of the tangible benefits such developments can bring. After moving into his brand-new home in April, Layne expressed his contentment to WBIR, "Gosh, it's wonderful. You still walk in there today and it smells, like, brand new — still fuming out from the carpet and stuff. It's been wonderful." Layne's journey to homeownership began in the winter of 2022, and he credits the help from Maryville's Foothills Community Development for his achievement. His testimony underscores the impact of these initiatives on individual lives, manifesting in the joy of owning a home that resonates with the scent of new beginnings.

The funds for the FCDC were sourced from an annual provision by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development, funneled through the THDA to facilitate local housing projects. This initiative represents an immediate solution to the housing deficit and signals the beginning of a larger housing project within the community. As per the details shared by The Daily Times, it was during a Tuesday check presentation that Katie Moore, the THDA Community Outreach Liaison, recognized the efforts of the FCDC team.