Cornerstone West CDC hosted a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the construction of the duPont/Douglas Townhomes project.
The City of Wilmington donated the property, which consisted of vacant and blighted land and buildings.
In addition to partnering with the City of Wilmington, Cornerstone West CDC is collaborating with the Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union.
“FMFCU was excited to partner with Cornerstone West CDC and the City of Wilmington on this community-enriching project,” said Nino DiRienzo, assistant vice president and Delaware market manager. “The West Side Grows Together Neighborhood Revitalization Plan is an initiative FMFCU proudly supports.”
Mission Builders LLC, the construction division of Milford Housing Development Corporation, is serving as the construction manager on the $1.4 million project. “We are excited to be partners with Cornerstone West CDC in the ongoing efforts to revitalize areas of Wilmington and bring forth additional affordable homeownership opportunities. When the community works together – great things can happen,” said David Moore, CEO, Milford Housing Development Corporation
“Because of this project, even more Delaware families will have the chance at affordable homeownership, which we know helps build wealth and increase community involvement,” said Anas Ben Addi, Director of the Delaware State Housing Authority. “DSHA is proud to support this effort. And we know it will make a real difference.”
Each townhome will feature 2-3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, and Energy Star appliances. All homes will be affordable to buyers with household income with lower incomes.
Additional support has been provided by Discover Bank.
Cornerstone is a community development corporation affiliated with West End Neighborhood House. Cornerstone has been developing rehabilitated and newly constructed affordable for-sale homes on the West Side of Wilmington for more than 15 years and has leveraged investment of more than $50 million in the community.
In attendance were Mayor Dennis P. Williams along with City Council Members Robert Williams, Justen Wright and Hanifa Shabazz; joined Anas Ben Addi of Delaware State Housing Authority, David Buches of FHLBank Pittsburgh, Nino DiRienzo of Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union, Vince Esposito of NCALL Loan Fund, and Amy Walls of Discover Bank.
The News Journal reported the project had long been in the works, but had struggled with a difficult economy and other issues
