Non Profits

Innovative and groundbreaking are the words being used to describe a mixed-income housing project in Auburn. The proposal going before the Auburn City Council comes with a $25 million price tag.If approved, the project would be built in the New Auburn section of the city on a city-owned parcel located near the corner of Main Street and Victory Road. Currently are no essential public utilities like water, sewer and gas services.That infrastructure could be brought in for $9.5 million, said city officials. City planners said they would be applying for U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development grant money.The housing project would include 48 single-family homes, eight owner-occupied duplexes and three multi-unit apartment buildings.Auburn officials said this is an example of the government working with private developers and community partners to create an innovative and diverse residential community.A 50-50 split of both affordable and market-rate housing. The affordable single-family homes cost no more than $250,000, while the affordable apartment would cost no more than $900 per month, officials said.”I think if we can get more people of mixed incomes in those situations, it would benefit both,” Glen Holmes, Auburn’s Director of Business and Community Development, said.Some of the neighbors along Victory Road said say live on the outskirts of the downtown for a reason. They said they like it quiet and this kind of development would be too busy for their liking.The city said creative, affordable housing is desperately needed.”Normally, a developer comes and buys a piece of land and develops. We’re putting some thought into it. Where does it make sense? What kind of infrastructure do we put in there? How does this go forward and make sure we put all the things in place to make it successful,” Holmes said.The project would also include an on-site child care facility operated by the YMCA. There would also be a community center. The Androscoggin Land Trust would oversee the management of 25 acres of adjacent conservation land, providing hiking trails for residents.The proposal was unveiled during an Auburn City Council workshop on Monday. It is far from a done deal. The grant application has to be submitted by Oct. 31, and the grant money would need to be awarded for the project to move forward.