For the first time in 10 years, Arecibo will develop housing under HOME Program
By THE STAR STAFF
Arecibo Mayor Carlos R. Ramírez Irizarry announced Wednesday that for the first time in 10 years, the northern coastal municipality has acquired two properties using federal funds from the HOME Program, with the goal of developing affordable housing for low- and very-low-income individuals and families.
“As part of our mission to create housing options for the people of Arecibo, we have completed the acquisition of two properties,” the mayor stated. “One of them is a plot of land located on PR-129, where the construction of six apartments is planned, intended for individuals and families who meet the eligibility requirements established by the federal program.”
The second property acquired is a building located on De Diego Avenue, in the urban center of Arecibo, which will be used for the development of affordable housing units.
“This project involves repurposing an existing structure, as part of our efforts to reclaim spaces and strengthen residential activity in our city center,” Ramírez Irizarry added.
The mayor noted that the HOME Program (HOME Investment Partnerships Program) is administered by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development and provides resources to state and municipal governments to fund the acquisition, construction and rehabilitation of housing for individuals and families with limited income.
The efforts to acquire both properties were led by Juan Carlos Colón González, director of municipal development, and Edgardo Pérez Pérez, coordinator of the HOME Program in Arecibo. Additionally, the municipal director of finance, Lourdes Acevedo Concepción, and attorney Ángela Oquendo Negrón participated in the formalization process.
With the acquisitions, the municipality reaffirmed its commitment to developing affordable housing alternatives, making use of existing properties, and revitalizing the urban center for the benefit of families in Arecibo.
