| GeneralQ. Why are the City and Good Samaritan Hospital involved in this project? Good Samaritan Hospital is committed to the success of the Phoenix Project area and is interested in building an affordable, stable and healthy community. They understand the importance to their future in keeping the areas surrounding their campus secure and attractive for hospital employees, patients and visitors. The City understands the importance of strong city neighborhoods and creating a safe and attractive gateway into downtown.
Q. What parts of the plan will be implemented soon and what parts will come later? The first phase will focus on increasing homeownership, encouraging existing homeowners to invest in their property, tearing down dilapidated structures, improving traffic flow along Salem Avenue and providing recreational and educational programs for residents of the area, especially youth. The expected time frame is 3-4 years. Later phases will focus on the possible development of a community center in the neighborhood, improving rental properties, and rehabbing homes. Finally, the project will blend the new elementary school into the neighborhood, and redevelop the Fairview school sites.
Q. What are the boundaries for the Phoenix Area? - The general target area is bounded by Salem, Philadelphia, Hillcrest and Catalpa. Some of the programs offered through the Phoenix Project extend beyond these boundaries. see map
YouthQ. The Fairview neighborhood has more young people than these pilot programs will serve. What are the plans to expand services to youth? HousingQ. What properties are eligible for Phoenix Project housing loans? For home improvement loans, the house must be a single family or a double, and the owner must live in the house. For home purchase loans, any single family or double in the Phoenix area listed for sale by a Realtor or the owner. See map for geographic area covered by Phoenix Project housing loans.
Q. I've heard there will be grant money available to fix up my home. Is that true? - No, there is no grant money for home improvements. However, Phoenix, through its partners, will provide a variety of low cost loans to homeowners who wish to remain in the Phoenix area and improve their homes. Contact CityWide Development for more information.
Q. Will my house be bought by Phoenix? No, the project goals do not require the purchase of specific properties by Phoenix. Properties likely identified for acquisition will be vacant or rundown properties, not owner-occupied. Emphasis will be on encouraging current homeowners to improve their homes and for new homeowners to buy in the neighborhoods.
Q. I'm a homeowner and want to stay in the neighborhood. What are my options? - The Phoenix Project wants to support home ownership in the area. Contact CityWide for information on low interest loans for home repair and improvements. CityWide can help you, or direct you to one of our other partners for help.
Q. I'm a renter in a property that is being acquired by Phoenix. What options do I have? If you would like to consider homeownership within the neighborhood make sure you let CityWide know. Special training is available for people with credit problems or for first time homebuyers. If you plan to remain a renter, you will be advised by CityWide after acquisition on financial assistance that is available to help you relocate. Any existing leases will be honored.
Q. I'm a renter in a property that is not being acquired. How does this project impact me? In the short term, probably not much. In the long term, as the area improves, rents may increase if you have not locked into a lease agreement with your landlord. Any change in rent will be determined by your landlord.
For general information about the Phoenix Project, email us at: kdemasi@citywidedev.com or call Karen DeMasi at (937) 853-2555. |
