Major Redevelopment Initiative: Over 1,000 Affordable Housing Units Planned in Miami-Dade County

Miami-Dade County is taking significant steps to address its longstanding affordable housing crisis with a comprehensive redevelopment program aimed at modernizing aging public housing complexes. The initiative will see the introduction of more than 1,000 new affordable housing units, spearheaded by local developers and supported by county commissioners.

Key Players in the Redevelopment

Redwood Development Company

Redwood Development Co., based in Miami Beach, is leading the charge with ambitious plans focused on three key projects. Here’s a breakdown of their proposals:

• Annie Coleman 14 Development:

  • Location: 2415-2479 and 2494 Northwest 50th Street, 2600 Northwest 48th Street
  • Units: 287 affordable apartments in three eight-story buildings
  • Additional Features: 36 townhouses and 4,800 square feet of retail space
  • The project will replace the existing 73 public housing units, with the townhouses available for both rental and purchase through programs like downpayment assistance.

• Gwen Cherry 07 Redevelopment:

  • Units: An eight-story building featuring 150 units specifically for renters aged 62 and older.
• Lemon City Redevelopment:
  • Units: An eight-story, 260-unit affordable apartment building.

Total retail space across Redwood’s developments amounts to 12,300 square feet, catering to community needs.

According to Redwood’s David Burstyn, the aim is to target households earning an average of 60% of the area median income (AMI), with some units designated for those earning as low as 30% of the AMI.

Integra

Integra, another significant developer, received approval to expand the Annie Coleman 14 complex further:

• Location: 2101 Northwest 52nd Street
• Units: Developed will include 316 apartments, contributing to the overall increase in local affordable housing options.

Benefits for Current Residents

A vital aspect of this redevelopment is ensuring that current residents have the first right to occupy the new units. This initiative reflects a commitment to maintaining community integrity throughout the modernization process.

Partnership with Local Management

To enhance project efficiency, Redwood is co-developing its initiatives with Magasi Management, a property management firm from Coconut Grove. This collaboration aims to ensure quality standards are met while adhering to local regulations.

Financing and Long-term Vision

The Miami-Dade redevelopment strategy is backed by the federal Rental Assistance Demonstration program, which aims to modernize around 7,000 public housing units throughout the county. Developers often leverage low-income housing tax credits, provided by the state, and maintain Section 8 vouchers for these properties, thus ensuring ongoing affordability.

Addressing Housing Challenges

For years, South Florida, particularly areas like Little Havana, has faced severe housing shortages, exacerbated by an influx of out-of-state residents during the pandemic. The pressing demand for affordable rental units has made it crucial for developers to respond swiftly by crafting below-market rate options that will lease up quickly.

Conclusion

The effort to introduce over 1,000 affordable housing units in Miami-Dade County marks a pivotal moment in addressing the region’s housing crisis. With a mix of innovative planning and community-focused initiatives, local developers are set to transform public housing while ensuring affordability remains a priority. As these projects move forward, they promise to offer a lifeline to many residents struggling to find suitable housing in an increasingly competitive market.

For more information on the latest initiatives impacting affordable housing in South Florida, check out our detailed housing report.