Greenville Advances Affordable Housing Initiatives

News Summary

The city of Greenville is taking significant strides in addressing affordable housing issues with several new developments. The Planning Commission has reviewed plans including the Alliance Project, which will offer 100 affordable residential units. Additional projects aimed at seniors and families are also in the works, showcasing a concerted effort to improve housing accessibility for the community. With various initiatives under construction or proposed, including senior housing and mixed-use developments, Greenville aims to meet the growing demand for affordable living spaces.

Greenville Takes Big Steps Towards Affordable Housing Developments

In the bustling city of Greenville, new plans are in the works aimed at transforming the local landscape by increasing the availability of affordable housing options. The Planning Commission recently discussed some exciting new projects that promise to make a real difference in the community.

The Alliance Project: A New Mixed-Use Marvel

One of the standout proposals is the Alliance Project, brought forward by McMillan Pazdan Smith. Situated at 1200 Laurens Road, this 3.6-acre site currently hosts the Laurens Road Church of God but is poised for a significant makeover. The ambitious plan involves constructing two four-story multi-family buildings that will house 100 affordable residential units. All of these units will cater to individuals earning at or below 70% of the area median income (AMI).

So, what does that mean for potential residents? The affordability will average around 60% of AMI for the next 30 years, making it a stable option for many families. In Building A, the first floor will feature 4,200 square feet of commercial space along with 5,100 square feet for amenities and a leasing office, with the rest dedicated to residential units. Building B will be entirely residential, comprising 16,500 square feet per floor.

More Affordable Housing for Seniors

In addition to the mixed-use development, the commission will also discuss a rezoning request for a different project at 101 Pine St. This proposal comes from the local nonprofit Beyond Housing SC and focuses on senior housing that aligns with U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development standards. The senior housing initiative promises that monthly rents will not exceed 30% of a resident’s total income, ensuring that affordability remains a priority.

Growing Need for Affordable Living Spaces

The need for affordable housing in and around Greenville is becoming increasingly pressing. Various organizations and developers are rising to the challenge. For instance, the Gateway at the Green is currently under construction, featuring 72 affordable units aimed at families earning between 20% and 60% of the AMI. This project is set to wrap up by the end of 2025.

Also in the pipeline is the Riley at Overbrook, which will add an additional 88 affordable housing units for families earning similar income levels, with completion anticipated by late 2024 or early 2025. Not to be left out, the Southernside Senior housing development is planned near Unity Park and will offer 147 rental units targeting seniors earning between 20% and 80% of AMI. This project is also in line for tax credits to help with financing.

Other Notable Developments

There’s a lot happening on the affordable housing front in Greenville. The Southpointe Senior development is contributing 90 units for seniors, and another project from the Greenville County Redevelopment Authority promises to add 14 units in the Sans Souci neighborhood. Housing organizations like Affordable Upstate and Habitat for Humanity are also making strides, with various restoration and construction projects underway.

The Greenville Housing Fund reports that in 2023, the area’s AMI is $89,000, designating affordable housing as costing no more than one-third of income for households earning less than 80% of AMI. In light of these developments, the Greenville City Council has allocated a healthy 14% of the budget toward neighborhoods and affordable housing initiatives, totaling around $2.5 million.

As these new developments take shape, they promise not just to change the skyline but to provide homes for those in need, fostering a stronger and more inclusive community in Greenville.