City of Tampa, FL

07/15/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/15/2025 07:32

Unveiling Drastic Renovation of an Old Seminole Heights Resident's Home News Community Redevelopment Areas, News Development & Economic Opportunity, News General, News Housing[...]

Struggling with leaks, old galvanized pipes and a dilapidated roof, Old Seminole Heights resident, Nicole Johnson, is celebrating her first few months of a home renovation funded by the City of Tampa's Healthy Homes Program and the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).

Through this program, the City of Tampa contributed nearly $100,000 to transform her home into a safe, stable, and functional property for Nicole and her daughter.

"Our staff came together to ensure Ms. Johnson and her family have a safe and healthy place to call home for years to come," said Mayor Jane Castor. "And that's what it's all about -- coming together, lending a hand, and giving our residents the chance to thrive in a community that cares."

A single mother of four, Ms. Johnson had been looking to apply for one of the city's home rehabilitation programs when she met an employee from the City's Housing Department who encouraged her to apply for Healthy Homes. Over the years, her home endured severe structural issues from hurricanes, creating leaks and mold issues. Thanks to the Healthy Homes Program, contractors installed nine new hurricane impact windows, new sinks and doors, a bathroom vanity, roof, and a complete sewer line replacement. In addition, some of Ms. Johnson's drywall was removed and replaced and electrical upgrades were made throughout the home.

"Our Housing funds were able to promote the empowerment and quality of life for City of Tampa residents like Ms. Johnson and her young daughter, and I can't think of money better spent," said Development and Economic Opportunity Administrator Abbye Feeley. "Lower income homeowners in Tampa face housing insecurity every day, and they don't always know where to look for help. Rest assured, the City and our housing programs are where they can turn to."

Since 2023, Healthy Homes has repaired 63 homes. With the help of CDBG and CRA funds, the program has assisted with more than $3.1 million in renovations. Already this year, eleven homes have received repairs through the program.

The Healthy Homes Program's main focus is preserving affordable housing and ensuring lower-income families have stable places to live. The program enhances public safety by fixing structural issues, upgrading electrical systems, and improving accessibility which makes homes safer for Tampa's residents.

It is a continuation of the City's former Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program, which has been in place for several years. Additional federal funding has allowed the City to increase the assistance from $50,000 up to $100,000 per home.

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