By Joshua Burd
A developer has completed 72 units of supportive housing in Hamilton after a project made possible with funding from the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency.
According to HMFA, the property known as Freedom Village at Hamilton Woods will provide permanent accessible homes and supportive services that will allow residents with disabilities to live independently in the township. That’s thanks in part to features that make for barrier-free living in every apartment, ensuring easy navigation for residents with wheelchairs, along with access to on-site social services coordinators provided by Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Newark.
Project Freedom was the developer, completing the project with the help of nearly $14 million generated through 9 percent Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and an additional $1.2 million awarded through HMFA’s Special Needs Housing Trust Fund.
“At NJHMFA, we are firmly committed to providing supportive housing to ensure that everyone has a safe, quality and affordable home regardless of disability status,” said Donna Spencer, the agency’s director of multifamily and supported housing and lending. “Hamilton residents know from experience that Project Freedom builds and maintains accessible, affordable apartments to the highest standard, enabling tenants to reach their full potential. It is our expectation that Project Freedom’s second Hamilton project will prove just as successful as their first.”
In a news release, HMFA noted that Freedom Village at Hamilton Woods has monthly rents as low as $882, allowing it to serve the needs of low- and moderate-income individuals. It also provides an opportunity for individuals with developmental disabilities or mental illnesses.
“Hamilton is proud to host a second Project Freedom development,” said Jeff Martin, the township’s mayor. “Project Freedom’s commitment to affordable, barrier-free housing is second-to-none and we look forward to our continued partnership with everyone who made this project possible.”
The development team added that Hamilton Woods provides easy access to neighborhood amenities such as a Capital Health clinic, the Hamilton Area YMCA and the Hamilton Library, all of which are across the street. Residents are also close to a nearby bus stop and a range of shopping and dining opportunities within walking distance.
“We are so thrilled to be celebrating the grand opening of our beautiful Hamilton Woods project, our 12th since the inception of Project Freedom nearly 40 years ago and our second in Hamilton Township,” said Tracee Battis, executive director of Project Freedom. “We are so thrilled to be celebrating the grand opening of our beautiful Hamilton Woods project, our 12th since the inception of Project Freedom nearly 40 years ago and our second in Hamilton Township. We cannot thank Mayor Jeff Martin, Hamilton Township, NJHMFA, Mercer County, TD Bank and National Equity Fund enough for their continued support for our mission.”
The Freedom Village concept has also been central to developments in Hopewell, Woodstown and Toms River, among others.
“On behalf of NJHMFA, I would like to thank everyone who played a part in bringing this project to fruition,” Executive Director Melanie R. Walter said. “Hamilton Woods offers modern, inclusive, accessible housing that will enhance resident access to and participation in the Hamilton Township community.”
