New Affordable Housing Unveiled in Bessemer

New Affordable Housing Unveiled in Bessemer

In a landmark development that marks the beginning of a new era for Bessemer, Alabama, the Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation, the Regions Foundation, and several community partners celebrated the inauguration of newly built affordable housing on May 29th, 2024.

New Domiciles for Bessemer’s Northside Neighborhood

Located in the city’s Northside area, three homes were revealed as part of the initial phase of the Northside Community Housing Development Initiative. Designed and initiated by the Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation roughly four years prior, this initiative replaces vacant homes and lots with modern, affordable housing solutions aimed at revitalizing the community in the vicinity of downtown Bessemer, including Brighton and Lipscomb. This sector had been experiencing challenges with disinvestment, vacant homes, and empty lots prior.

Reversing Bessemer’s Housing Trend

Brian Giattina, president of the Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation Board of Directors, voiced his optimism about the project, claiming it is an essential stride toward community development after a half-century-long stagnation period. He stated, “For this community, this is a critical step. This community for 50-plus years has not seen a new investment or new construction. It is a part of what Bessemer Redevelopment has been about for the last three years.”

The Regions Foundation significantly facilitated the construction by offering a $150,000 grant. Other stakeholders Encouraging this project include Deer Valley Homebuilders, Inc., the Housing Affordability Trust, United Bank, Alabama Power Foundation, Navigate, the Goodrich Foundation, and the City of Bessemer.

Much More Than Just Houses

The Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation’s focus extends beyond simply providing quality housing. Through cumulative efforts and initiatives, the organization is striving to improve public spaces, sidewalks, streetlights, community assets, promote commercial development, and initiate neighborhood anchor projects.

A New Phase

Emphasizing the future plans for the project, Giattina noted, “You have got to start with three (homes) to get to the next three to get to the next three. This is about the neighbors, the community, and the people that have been a part of this community for 50 plus years giving them what they rightfully deserve… this is just the beginning.”

To support this ambitious task or to learn more about the new homes available in Bessemer, interested parties have been encouraged to reach out directly to the Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation.