New Community is in the midst of renovating four of its Newark properties: Commons, Douglas, Gardens and Roseville.
Construction work began Jan. 8 and will continue through the end of 2019. The senior buildings are being done first, with the family buildings to follow.
The goal of the project is to update and preserve NCC’s affordable housing.
“Our residents will now be able to enjoy a renewed environment and have the assurance that their home will be preserved for many years to come, all while maintaining the services and facilities on which they rely heavily for everyday life,” said New Community CEO Richard Rohrman.
New Community worked with Greystone Affordable Development — a development and transaction management group focused on recapitalization, rehabilitation and preservation of affordable housing — to secure funding for the project. Claremont Construction Group is upgrading the interior and exterior of the buildings.
The rehabilitation work on the buildings will include roofs, boilers, lighting, elevators, underground piping and landscaping to better serve residents.
Each unit within the properties will be painted and will be getting new closets and a brand new bathroom. Based on need, some apartments will have additional work done, which could include flooring, entry doors, light fixtures or appliances.
During the in-place rehab, residents do not have to move out of their apartments. They only need to vacate when heavy construction is being done. Breakfast, lunch and activities are being provided for residents who are required to vacate their homes for the day. Tenants receive sufficient notice about work being performed.
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka sees the renovation project as a positive for the city.
“The revitalization process at NCC serves as a model for how we can ensure the legacy of our city, and others like it,” Baraka said. “Newark is making clear and measurable efforts to increase the amount of available affordable housing, and NCC’s contributions to serving the at-risk community is a critical component to the city’s future success.”
To help pay for the project, Hudson Housing Capital provided low income housing tax credit equity and Freddie Mac and Greystone’s Affordable lending arm provided tax-exempt and taxable debt.
“Teaming with an organization such as New Community Corporation is truly meaningful to Greystone, as we are able to positively impact the lives of thousands by preserving the environment they call home,” said Greystone Affordable Development President Tanya Eastwood.
Residents with questions or concerns about the renovation project should contact their building manager.
