News Summary
Habitat for Humanity Northeast Michigan is constructing three new affordable homes on Bedford Street in Alpena. Set to be completed by October 2025, the project addresses critical housing shortages in the area. The homes will be available for purchase through an inclusive qualification process, encouraging community participation. The initiative includes environmental cleanup and collaboration with local officials, showcasing a strong commitment to community development and stability.
Alpena Sees New Affordable Housing Through Habitat for Humanity Development
Alpena, Michigan — Habitat for Humanity Northeast Michigan is making significant progress in addressing local housing needs by constructing three new homes on Bedford Street in Alpena. These homes are scheduled to be completed by October 2025, providing new opportunities for families in the community.
Location and Construction Timeline
The new residences are situated at 307, 317, and 321 Bedford Street, close to Ella White Elementary School. Construction activities began with foundation work starting on April 18, 2025. The project is on track for move-in readiness by the fall of 2025, offering a timely solution to housing shortages in the area.
Previous Structures and Site Cleanup
The properties previously hosted houses built in the 1920s and 1930s, which had fallen into disrepair and were abandoned. Recognizing the unsafe condition of these structures, they were demolished to make way for new development. Prior to demolition, environmental assessments revealed the presence of contaminants in the old buildings, prompting extensive environmental removal efforts.
Funding and Environmental Work
The State Land Bank in Lansing provided $500,000 to the Alpena County Land Bank. This funding was allocated for property acquisition and conducting environmental studies necessary before demolition and construction. Environmental cleanup was critical to ensure the safety of future residents and the community.
Homebuyer Qualification and Community Involvement
Potential residents of the new homes must go through a thorough qualification process to purchase their homes via an affordable mortgage. A key component of this process involves contributing sweat equity, where qualifying families assist during certain phases of building the homes, fostering a sense of ownership and community participation.
Descriptions of the New Homes
Two of the new homes, located at 317 and 321 Bedford, will each have three bedrooms, one bathroom, a living room, a kitchen, a one-car garage, and front and back porches. The third home, at 307 Bedford, will feature two bedrooms and is designated for a retired teacher who has never owned a home before, emphasizing Habitat’s commitment to serving specific community needs.
Construction Details
The homes at 317 and 321 Bedford are modular units supplied by Ritz-Craft Corporation from Jonesville, Michigan. Conversely, the house at 307 Bedford is a traditional stick-built structure. Local excavating services for the site are provided by Dave Marchlewski, and overall construction oversight is handled by Bryan DeCare Masonry.
Partnerships and Community Collaboration
Throughout the project, Habitat for Humanity Northeast Michigan has worked closely with local officials, including Alpena Planning, Development, and Zoning Director Montiel Birmingham, as well as the Alpena County Land Bank. Their collaborative efforts have facilitated smooth progress in both environmental review and construction planning.
Looking Ahead
The completed homes will offer affordable, safe living space to deserving families, exemplifying the long-term benefits of homeownership fostered by Habitat for Humanity. This project highlights ongoing efforts to meet housing needs in Alpena and reflects a sustained commitment to community development and stability.
For additional details about Habitat for Humanity Northeast Michigan and future housing projects, interested individuals are encouraged to visit their official website or contact their local office for more information.
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Additional Resources
- The Alpena News: Construction Progressing on Three Habitat Homes
- WBKB 11: Habitat for Humanity to Build Fifty Affordable Houses
- The Alpena News: Habitat for Humanity Building Three New Homes
- Wikipedia: Habitat for Humanity
- The Alpena News: Hillman Family Moves into New Habitat Home
- Google Search: Habitat for Humanity construction 2025
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