MACON, Ga. — New affordable housing is taking shape in South Macon, where five new single-family homes are replacing blighted properties near Bruce Elementary School.

Macon-Bibb County partnered with the Macon-Bibb County Affordable Housing Fund on the project along Villa Esta Avenue, just off Houston Avenue. Keisha Stafford with Stafford Construction said the homes are expected to be move-in ready within three months.

Mayor Lester Miller said the development is part of a larger effort to revitalize South Macon and create more opportunities for homeownership. Since 2021, Miller said the county has removed more than 150 dangerous and blighted structures from the Houston Avenue area through its blight fight program.

“That’s a lot of housing that’s been eliminated that pose a threat to those children walking to school, that eliminate the hope that they have that people care about their community,” Miller said.

Miller said the county has invested more than $10 million into South Macon through housing developments, new parks, paving projects, demolitions, public safety efforts and a health clinic.

The homes are being built directly across from Bruce Elementary School, something community leaders said could positively impact children growing up in the neighborhood.

Keith Moffett, Macon-Bibb County manager and president-elect of 100 Black Men of Macon-Middle Georgia, said his organization works closely with students at Bruce Elementary and believes safer, cleaner neighborhoods help children thrive.

“When they come out and see a beautiful neighborhood when they can come across the street and go into the park or go to the playground, it makes them feel safe and from there they can prosper,” Moffett said.

Miller said each home will be valued between $200,000 and $300,000. He said no homeowners have been selected yet, but there will be an open application process for people interested in purchasing or living in the homes.

County leaders also said future affordable housing projects could include a mix of homeownership, rental and voucher opportunities.

During Tuesday’s event, guests signed one of the homes with encouraging messages to commemorate the investment in the neighborhood.

“People are excited about new construction coming to their area,” Miller said. “Number one, it makes it a safer environment for everyone. It also helps the schools here. It helps improve property values because people build wealth through ownership of houses.”

Stafford said the homes will come equipped with major appliances, including a stove, refrigerator, microwave and oven, to help future homeowners settle in more easily.

Moffett said the project represents more than just new construction.

“When the first residents move in here, we’re going to make sure that we come over and say hello, and welcome them to the neighborhood,” Moffett said.

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