Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
WILMINGTON, Del. – Today, U.S. Senators Tom Carper and Chris Coons, Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester, and Governor John Carney (all D-Del.) attended a ceremony marking the completion of Phase I of the Solomon’s Court affordable housing initiative alongside Be Ready Community Development Corporation leaders, community partners, and others.
A ribbon-cutting unveiled six new affordable housing units – four one-bedroom units and two two-bedroom units – in the 1500 block of West Fourth Street, a $3.5 million, 1,600-square-foot project. The universally designed units will provide dignified housing options in a traditionally underserved community.
Phase II, an expansion of an additional 12 units, is expected to begin shortly. Two-million dollars of the $7.5 million total needed for the second phase will be funded through a congressionally directed spending grant. In addition to housing, these mixed-use buildings will also provide retail space on the ground floor for small businesses. In total, Phase II will add 4,000 square feet of space, bringing available space at Solomon’s Court to 5,600 square feet.
“The opening of Solomon’s Court, made possible thanks to the support of so many individuals and organizations from the public, private, and philanthropic sectors, is helping us build up the Hilltop community, bringing affordable housing options for families and creating commercial space where businesses can grow. Quality housing that families can afford is a vital condition that all individuals and communities need to thrive, as well as meaningful work and wealth, which will all be supported by Solomon’s Court,” said Pastor Margaret Moon-Taylor, Executive Director, Be Ready Community Development Corporation.
“Every human being deserves the dignity of a roof over their head,” said Senator Chris Coons. “Whenever possible in my position as an appropriator, I prioritize ensuring federal funding makes its way to projects like this, so more individuals are able to find a place to call home. I’m delighted to see the progress on Solomon’s Court so far, and I can’t wait to see it filled with families and Delaware businesses once Phase II is complete.”
“I am proud our congressional delegation is able to provide much-needed funding to support safe and affordable housing in Wilmington,” said Senator Tom Carper. “Throughout the state, federal funding has opened doors to safe renting and homeownership, and we will continue to look for ways to improve the lives of families in the First State.”
“Access to readily available and affordable housing units is critical to supporting Delawareans’ personal and economic potential,” said Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester. “I’m thrilled to have worked alongside Senator Carper and Senator Coons to get this funding across the finish line for Solomon’s Court to embark on Phase II of its affordable housing initiative. Today’s announcement is a true testament to the dedication of all the partners – from public and private to government and nonprofit – to continually invest in closing the affordable housing gap in our state.”
“The opening of Solomon’s Court is an important step towards revitalizing the Hilltop community,” said Governor John Carney. “Along with investments in infrastructure, education, and community development, we are making a commitment to the City of Wilmington. I want to thank Senator Carper, Senator Coons, Representative Blunt Rochester, Mayor Purzycki, Be Ready Community Development Corporation, and all of our partners for helping make this investment.”
“Being a resident of the third district born, raised, and bred, and walking past, and seeing what this was previously, these were drug homes, and now to see that Pastor Lottie’s vision has turned into something that’s transforming our community with the help of Pastor Margaret and Elder Wayne, our congressional delegation, the state, and the city, this is a great example of government working together with the community to transform lives, and I’m grateful to be a part of it,” said State Representative Sherry Dorsey Walker.
“This project is a beautiful testament to the vision of Pastor Lottie Lee Davis, who refused to be discouraged by hurdles placed in front of the things she knew were needed for the community she served,” said Mayor Mike Purzycki. “The City of Wilmington is grateful to everyone who carried out her legacy of supporting affordable housing, small business opportunities, and a stronger city for all. The support of the congressional delegation for this project is very much appreciated.”
“Delaware State Housing Authority is proud to partner on this historic permanent supportive housing project,” said Eugene R. Young Jr., Director, Delaware State Housing Authority. “We commend Pastor Moon and the Be Ready Community Development Corporation board for their leadership in bringing Solomon’s Court Phase I to life and look forward to continuing this momentum for Phase II.”
“I am thrilled to be here today to celebrate the opening of the first phase of Solomon’s Court,” said Winthrop Watson, President and CEO, Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh (FHLBank Pittsburgh). “Together with our member, WSFS Bank, we were able to provide early financial support to this project. Many community partners and funders have joined on to back this project, which has resulted in quality affordable homes that are so important to this area. I personally want to thank the Delaware congressional delegation for their continued partnership that allows FHLBank Pittsburgh and our members to provide this support to our communities.”
Officials anticipate Phase II will be completed in mid-to-late 2024. For photos from Monday’s event, click here.
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