The City of Phoenix and Trellis Community Development are joining forces to bring new affordable housing to the Garfield neighborhood. According to a press release from the City of Phoenix, there will be a groundbreaking of 10 affordable and energy-efficient single-family homes. Mayor Kate Gallego, celebrating the initiative, said, "This groundbreaking marks our latest efforts in the ongoing and urgent work of creating and preserving much-needed housing in our community." The homes, aimed at enhancing homeownership opportunities, are part of Phoenix's broader commitment to address housing challenges.
Offered at affordable prices, the partnership sees Trellis taking the helm to construct these homes on City-owned lots. District 8 Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington explained the significance of the move, saying, "Today, we made progress by breaking ground on 10 new affordable homes in the neighborhood that will provide working-class Phoenicians the opportunity to own a home and invest in their own community." Seven of the homes are specifically reserved for households earning up to 120% of the area median income (AMI), while three will cater to those earning 80% or less AMI. Long-term community stability is expected to be fostered, with the help of down payment assistance and low-interest gap financing made available to Phoenix families, as reported by the City of Phoenix.
Reflecting the area's historic charm, the homes will adhere to American Craftsman Bungalow-style architecture, replete with front porches. They will range from 960 to 1,500 square feet, accommodating two to four bedrooms. The endeavor strives not only for affordability but also sustainability and energy efficiency. Furthermore, the project aims to safeguard the neighborhood from future overdevelopment by implementing strategies like deed restrictions or downzoning.
The project is partially underwritten by voter-approved Bonds and federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding. Anticipated to begin in early January 2025, the construction of the first three homes will pave the way, with all 10 homes expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
