Florida Construction News staff writer
New affordable homes are set to be built over the next year and a half as developers participating in the city of Tampa’s third phase of the Infill Housing Program break ground.
Twenty lots were awarded to local developers, including several minority- and family-owned builders. In exchange for receiving the lots at no cost, the developers will build and sell homes to income-eligible buyers.
Unlike previous phases, eight of the developers will build townhome-style residences, creating up to 45 units in phase three. That brings the total number of affordable homes constructed through the program to approximately 295. Construction is focused in the East Tampa and Central Park neighborhoods.
“Past the brick and mortar, these homes represent stability, safety and prosperity for generations of families,” Mayor Jane Castor said. “With each home we are also supporting our local developers by creating work opportunities and uplifting neighborhoods with new investment.”
With the current median home price in Hillsborough County around $420,000, homes built through the program will not exceed $400,000, offering a more attainable option for local families.
“The Infill Housing Program is just one of the many ways we are helping local families achieve housing stability,” said Abbye Feeley, administrator of Development and Economic Opportunity. “It takes a lot of legwork and results do not happen overnight, but when families finally move in, our sense of accomplishment is overwhelming.”
Developers must apply to participate and are selected through a random lottery process.
