Two of Cinnaire’s projects, Green Gables and River Crest Apartments, have been selected as Affordable Housing Finance (AHF) Finalists for the 2017 Readers’ Choice Awards. Divided into ten categories, this widely recognized award goes to the nation’s best developments of 2016-2017. Thirty-six developments were selected from over 120 entries as finalists. The winners for each category will be determined by the readers of Affordable Housing Finance.
Developed by the Bond County Housing Authority and Patchwork, a nonprofit established by the Housing Authority, Green Gables provides 40 new, affordable, single family rental homes in Greenville, Illinois, and is competing in the Rural category. Greenville is a modern, small town located within proximity to major metropolitan areas. Its location allows residents to enjoy access to cultural experiences, shopping, sports and other amenities while embracing the advantages of living in a rural setting. As Greenville experiences economic growth, affordable housing options are limited and sparse. Green Gables assists in filling this need, as well as promoting economic stability and creating a foundation for residents to further improve their lives.
River Crest Apartments, formerly Colony and Fisher Arms Apartments, provides 161 units of renovated, affordable apartments in Detroit, Michigan and is competing in the Preservation of Affordable Housing category. Detroit’s historic Colony and Fisher Arms apartments had earned a reputation for violence, drug activity, and insect infestation. Intolerable power outages, police calls, home invasions, and gang activity were daily occurrences, making it Detroit’s most problematic apartment community. Despite being surrounded by many of Detroit’s most iconic properties, frequent criminal activity, poor tenant selection and subpar property management plagued this historic affordable building.
Fortunately, Building Blocks Nonprofit Housing Corporation, Cinnaire and Chesapeake Community Advisors collaborated to embark on the multi-million-dollar rehabilitation of Detroit’s notorious Colony and Fisher Arms. Today, the completely renovated River Crest Apartments provide residents with comfortable, safe, stable homes and inspire renewed feelings of hope. The development serves as a catalyst for new investment and revitalization, as well as bringing new life to the community and its residents, stimulating significant social improvement.
Click HERE to vote for the finalists. Online voting will take place between July 7th and August 4th. For further information and to submit your vote, please visit Affordable Housing Finance.
