The targeted area for the first Model Block Program selected by the City Council is bounded by Agnes St., Staples St., Morgan St. and the Crosstown Expressway (Hwy 286). This neighborhood is also known as NIP #1 and was the very first area served by the Neighborhood Initiative Program (NIP).
To determine the first area for the Model Block Program, the City consulted with J. Quad & Associates of Dallas, Texas to conduct a Comprehensive Neighborhood Needs Assessment. The report identified major issues to be addressed and put forth a recommendation for the first area to be served by the program based on the following criteria:
- The availability of vacant lots and properties for a viable revitalization program.
- The number of criminal, code and zoning issues that still need to be addressed.
- Neighborhood interest and enthusiasm in the success of the program.
Click here to view the Comprehensive Needs Assessment
Project Funding/Resources:
City resources and services including The Department of Housing and Urban Development Community Development Block and HOME grants will be dedicated toward the program funding and to leverage various resources for these various revitalization projects. Public and private partnerships with the neighborhood will be necessary to effectively solve problems and build for the future of the area.
A successful MBP would result in the formation by the residents of a neighborhood association or a partnership with a local non-profit community development corporation/organization to continue their neighborhood development. A successful MBP may also continue to develop funding for various neighborhood projects beyond the initial Model Block allocations.
Tools for Revitalization:
- Financing Tools: Federal, State & Local Grant Funding
- Home Funds were awarded in the amount of $550,000 at the
April 18, 2006 City Council Meeting.
- An application was made to the 4-Allocation Board for $250,000 on February 3, 2006 (pending).
- Regulation Tools: Zoning, Land Use Designation, Historic Preservation, Conservation Districts, Code Enforcement, Platting, Urban Design, etc.
- Zoning Ordinance was amended in December, 2005 to allow development of single family dwellings on non-conforming lots.
- Housing Development Tools: Infill Housing, Home Buyers Programs,
Rehabilitation, Reconstruction, Demolition & New Construction, Rental Rehabilitation, etc.
- Various City Programs for consideration, if families meet guidelines. (Home Buyers Program, Rehabilitation Programs, New Construction, etc.)
Resident Involvement:
Residents of the MBP neighborhood will assist City Staff in developing a comprehensive neighborhood plan based on the developed comprehensive needs assessment and through strategic planning sessions with neighborhood residents. Together, city staff and neighborhood residents will implement the improvement projects prioritized by the residents.
Partnerships:
Committed Model Block Program partners to date:
