By: Deborah Johnson Wood
In 1990, the Carmody Apartments at 730 and 736 Madison SE had sat vacant for three years, had been vandalized, inhabited by squatters, and were about one month away from demolition. That's when Inner City Christian Federation (ICCF) bought them and upgraded the 19 units to some of the first high-quality affordable housing in Grand Rapids.
The two-building complex was built in the 1920s, and although the upgrades were done in the 90s, another $632,000 in renovations is needed.
The Grand Rapids Community Development Department has recommended the ICCF to the City Commission for a $190,000 grant to cover a portion of the renovation costs. The City Commission will make a final decision on the grant award next Tuesday.
"The flat roofs need to be replaced right away," said ICCF Executive Director Jonathan Bradford. "We need to replace parts of the electrical system, all the kitchens and appliances, the bathrooms and fixtures, paint, carpet, and some doors."
The apartments rent for about $500 a month. Utilities are included. That’s about $400 less that market rate apartments with utilities included.
"We've kept it occupied with families," Bradford said. "It's been very affordable for people who make less than 40% of the area median income."
Source: Jonathan Bradford, Inner City Christian Federation
www.iccf.org
Deborah Johnson Wood is the Development News Editor for Rapid Growth. She can be reached at [email protected].
Enjoy this story?
Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.