CAMDEN, NJ – The Housing Authority of the City of Camden (HACC), along with its co-applicant, the City of Camden, has received $ 35 million in funding to implement Choice Neighborhood Implementation (CNI) to remodel the obsolete Ablett Village community housing historic Cramer Hill neighborhood. Michaels Organization is HACC's private housing partner for the major redevelopment that includes 425 new affordable homes, community facilities and ample green space.
"The people of Ablett Village campaigned for this community transformation and now that transformation is becoming a reality," said Nicholas Cangelosi, vice president of development for Michaels, the lead developer of Ablett Village. "We have extraordinary plans that go beyond stationary and mortar; they include solid resident support services and professional training, education and career development programs."
US HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge announced the Camden CNI Award at an event held at the Ablett Village on June 2nd.
"It's moments like this that remind us of what is possible when we come together as a team," said Victor D. Figueroa, Executive Director of HACC. “HACC, the Cramer Hill Community and our many partners have been working for years on a shared vision for a fairer future in Ablett Village, from which residents with low to middle incomes will benefit in particular. And now, with the generous support of HUD, including the Jobs Plus program, which has been in place for three years at Ablett this August, we are excited to be putting our carefully crafted plan into action. "
The transformation plan includes four phases with 425 mixed homes for families and seniors, as well as health and wellness facilities, a fitness center, multi-purpose rooms, recreation areas and facilities for community organizations. The largest phase will be built on the current Ablett Village site. The remaining phases will be built across the Cramer Hill community to provide existing and current residents with excellent access to robust community facilities throughout the Cramer Hill neighborhood.
All four phases will have a mix of income, with units for returning Ablett Village residents, affordable units, and units reserved for middle-income households.
Other members of the development team include Michaels Development, Michaels Management and Michaels Construction, as well as Michael's Supporting Services partner Better Tomorrows. Urban Practice acts as an architect. Construction work for the first phase is expected to begin in around eight months.
