Achieving the Florida Keys homeownership dream may seem daunting, especially in times that followed the COVID-19 pandemic with soaring demands and rising prices. Even renting a home proved to be a challenge for working-class families.
One local nonprofit, however, is confronting the Keys affordable housing crisis and providing opportunities for workers and families to attain a home without breaking the bank.
Coming off successful completion of a four-unit complex in 2022 and 16 affordable housing units in 2020, Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys recently broke ground on yet another project. Dubbed Gardenia Place, work is underway to construct seven single-family homes and a two-story duplex right next to Plantation Key School and not far from Coral Shores High School. Land clearing and ground work recently began by one of Habitat’s longtime partners in CBT Construction.
HFHUK’s latest project is seen to be an attractive and affordable homeownership opportunity for teachers and school staff working nearby, as well as first responders, trade workers and other essential members of the Upper Keys workforce.
Lindsay Fast, HFHUK executive director, said she’s pleased to see the project underway during a ceremonial groundbreaking with Habitat board members and stakeholders on Feb. 23. The work began in July 2021 when HFHUK expressed interest in developing two parcels of property owned by the village of Islamorada. By September 2021, Habitat was awarded land to develop some much-needed housing.
“We’re pleased that the village donated the land so we could proceed without complicated land lease agreements,” Fast said.
Dave Helwig, president of the HFHUK executive committee, said the arrangement that allowed Habitat to acquire the property through a village donation is unique.
Fast said homes on Gardenia Street will be elevated with parking space underneath, which is similar to Habitat’s other projects in Islamorada, including Esslinger Heights at MM 89 and Windley Point complex near MM 88. Each home will have three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
Publix Super Market Charities offered a $50,000 donation to become a partial home sponsor. And with construction costs increasing, Fast said HFHUK is still seeking other sponsors for the project. Habitat is hosting a cocktail party on March 10. Proceeds will be directed to construction of Gardenia Place and future projects.
JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly
Chris Trentine, owner of CBT Construction, acknowledged that HFHUK homes allow teachers, first responders and other workers the chance to be in a safe and well-constructed home.
Homeowner applications for Gardenia Place are expected to be available in late summer 2023, according to Fast. Applicants must qualify based on need and ability to pay. In addition, a single applicant must complete 250 hours of sweat equity, while families applying for a home must complete 350 hours.
With income guidelines set by the U.S. Housing and Urban Development, HFHUK accepts applicants in the 50-80% area median income range.
Visit habitatupperkeys.org for more information.
