Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Miami's Affordable Housing Finalist in National Awards

The editors of the national magazine Affordable Housing Finance have published their list of the top 35 affordable housing developments across the nation as finalists in its fifth annual Readers' Choice Awards. I am proud to say that two City of Miami housing developments have been listed in the top three of the following categories: Historic Rehabilitation and Master Planned/Mixed Use Developments.

The Royalton Apartments are located in the heart of Downtown Miami. Originally built as the prestigious Royalton Hotel in 1923, this historic property was restored in a collaborative effort among the City of Miami, Carlisle Development Group and Carrfour Supportive Housing. The project is also a finalist in The Florida Trust Awards for Outstanding Achievement in the Field of Restoration/Rehabilitation.

Additionally, Village Allapattah is recognized for promoting a healthy community for its residents, all low- and moderate-income families and seniors. All residents receive membership to the onsite 17,000 sq. ft. fitness club, part of a larger YMCA center that includes a day-care facility and other resources for residents. I am proud that Village Allapattah, our newest affordable housing development, is already being considered a model for YMCAs across the country.

The City of Miami has taken a lead among Miami-Dade County municipalities in providing quality affordable housing for the residents of our growing city and I hope that our successes will serve as a model for cities throughout South Florida.

Read more about the awards here and in the recent issue of U.S. Mayor.