WHO WILL OVERSEE THE SMITHFIELD COURT PLAN FOR REVITALIZATION?

Smithfield Court public housing residents, HABD, the City and other key stakeholders who serve on the Housing, People and Neighborhood Task Forces. The implementation of the plan for revitalization will be managed by these groups in coordination with the Choice Advisory Council, which includes Birmingham City Schools, UAB, United Way and Smithfield, College Hills and Graymont neighbors and business owners, as we all work to implement our shared vision.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?

 

On January 26, 2023, HUD awarded a $50M Choice Neighborhoods Implementation grant  for the Smithfield-College Hills-Graymont community. The grant period is for eight years, from 2023-2031. Smithfield Court public housing residents will meet with social service coordinators in 2023 and new phases of housing and neighborhood investments are planned to come online each year from 2024-2031. There are seven phases of housing planned and five neighborhood initiatives, including addressing community safety.

WILL THERE BE NEW HOUSING CONSTRUCTED?

 

Yes, new housing with amenities will be constructed to include a mix of apartments for families, children, seniors and people with disabilities. The Smithfield Court public housing residents will have a critical seat at the table at every meeting as we develop new communities together for existing residents.

WILL I BE OFFERED AN OPPORTUNITY TO LIVE IN THE NEW APARTMENTS?

 

Yes, every lease-compliant existing Smithfield Court household will have the right to return to a replacement apartment where they will continue to pay 30% of their income toward rent. The Choice Neighborhoods program requires one-for-one replacement housing.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS FOR SMITHFIELD COURT RESIDENTS?

 

1. First opportunity to move into replacement apartments with amenities.

2. Long term availability of affordable housing and rental assistance.

3. Additional flexibility to move to better housing and/or places of opportunity.

4. Assigned social services support coordinator and network of services focused on Smithfield Court residents.

HOW IS THE CHOICE NEIGHBORHOODS DIFFERENT FROM HOPE VI?

 

Created by the Obama administration in 2010, Choice Neighborhoods builds on lessons learned from HOPE VI by investing in affordable housing, services and the surrounding neighborhood. Choice Neighborhoods provides funds to improve resident access to education, workforce development, health/wellness programs and mobility.

HOW DO I GET MORE INFORMATION?

 

Look for notices delivered to your door and posted at the site.

• Email smithfieldchoice@habd.net

• Call 205-521-0799

• Follow us on social at Facebook www.facebook.com/habdbham or Instagram @hadbham.