The Galveston Housing Authority named McCormack Baron Salazar, as their public housing recovery partner at a press conference held at the Island Community Center, 4700 Broadway, on Monday, July 18, 2011.
The long awaited announcement of a master developer to assist in restoring much of the HUD mandated 569 public housing units was met with optimism by Galveston residents and public officials who were in attendance. More than 1000 families are on a waiting list for homes on the Island; many who were displaced by Hurricane Ike and a large number are new applicants who are experiencing the effects of the economy.
In addressing public housing concerns, and concern of Galveston residents, the Board of Commissioners of the Galveston Housing Authority carefully approached rebuilding efforts by selecting an experienced mixed-income developer who will work with the community to plan and build mixed income housing communities, and provide support services and facilities. Public participation is a strong component of the mixed-income development. Paula Neff, Chair, Galveston Housing Authority Board of Commissioners, stated "There are many issues that Galveston faces, as was clearly stated by the City of Galveston's housing consultant, CDM. We have a once in a lifetime opportunity to create a future for the City of Galveston by using the CDBG funds appropriately, and we intend to do so. The GHA commissioners feel confident in our selection of McCormack Baron Salazar, and that as a team we will succeed to create excellent housing options on the Island. Our goal is to foster public/private partnerships with real estate developers, property managers and service providers to strengthen individuals, families and communities within the City of Galveston."
The rebuilding of the public housing units will be in compliance with HUD 24 CFR 941-202 which provides guidance on site and neighborhood standards for the program and will comply with affirmatively furthering fair housing guidelines. The goal of the Galveston Housing Authority is to develop quality housing reflective of Galveston's rich architectural history in mixed-income communities that revitalize the city's neighborhoods, and stimulate private investment. One of the sources of funding for the new development is from a Community Development Block Grant made available by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
For more information, visit:
www.mccormackbaron.com
www.urbanstrategiesinc.org
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