Habitat for Humanity of St. Augustine/St. Johns County (Habitat St. Johns) purchased a new property Friday, Sept. 12, and will develop the largest affordable housing community in the local nonprofit’s 33-year history.
The new neighborhood will vitalize a 32-acre parcel off Duval Street adjacent to the Solomon Calhoun Community Center. Future Habitat homeowners will have walkable access to ball fields, swimming pool, fitness classes and sports and activities in the gymnasium.
About half of the property will become the future home to 74 individuals and families. The rest of the property will remain protected wetlands, retention ponds and wildlife refuge and may include a passive park for residents. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027.
“This is a historic moment for Habitat St. Johns,” said Executive Director Malinda Everson. “The purchase of this 32-acre property marks our largest neighborhood development to date, with 74 affordable homes planned for hardworking families in our community. This neighborhood will provide not only homes, but also stability and opportunity for generations to come. We are proud to continue expanding our mission and build a stronger, more inclusive St. Johns County.”
The new community, yet to be named, will include affordable 2-, 3- and 4-bedroom single family homes of various looks and styles. The site plan is being finalized by Matthews DCCM, and work on home designs will begin soon.
Habitat St. Johns builds in partnership with individuals and families earning between 30% and 120% of the Area Median Income, ensuring that people across various income levels can purchase homes that fit within their budget without compromising quality or location. Habitat homeowners enjoy housing costs that do not exceed 30% of their income.
To learn more about this new community, work being done by Habitat St. Johns or how to help, go to habitatstjohns.org.
