DAVENPORT, Iowa (KWQC) – KWQC is getting a first look at what a new City of Davenport housing project will look like.
The city’s community development department is organizing the construction of three new single-family homes in the 700 block of E. 6th St. through its Urban Homestead Program. Officials say it’s the first time the city is taking on new construction through the program instead of rehabilitating an existing property.
“It’s amazing to see a project go from start to finish,” said Heather Johnson, Community Development Resources Manager, City of Davenport.
The project in LeClaire Heights took flight earlier this year. Plans call for two, two-story homes and one ranch-style house. They will have vinyl siding, landscaping, high-efficiency windows and fittings, and walk-out basements. Home prices are expected to be set below $100,000.
Johnson says the city is excited about their location being close to downtown and parks, with views of the Mississippi River.
She says the nearly $600,000 project will help turn hard-working families into homeowners.
“These are people that are out there. They’re working, they have good incomes but for one reason or another, they can’t put together that down payment or they can’t get the financing,” said Johnson.
The new homes are just the tip of the iceberg for the historic neighborhood. Johnson says the city has plans to tear down other abandoned homes nearby and develop vacant lots in the neighborhood.
Plans are also in the works for new streets and sidewalks to complete one of Davenport’s first urban subdivisions.
“For the ultimate homeowner, where else are you going to get a brand new house, with river views, access to the parks, access to the river, and get it for $100,000 or less,” said Johnson.
Funding for the project comes from a federal grant the city receives annually. Johnson says revenues from the sale of homes and other projects are reinvested into the Urban Homestead Program.
Income limits are set at about $37,000 for a single person and about $53,000 for a family of four. Johnson says the city will begin accepting applications next month.
For more information, call Heather Johnson at 563-888-2004.
You can also check this link for updates and more details: www.cityofdavenportiowa.com/homestead
