New Medford Subdivision Offers Affordable Housing
MEDFORD, Ore. — A housing project in Medford has drawn mixed reactions. The Rogue Valley Habitat for Humanity’s Habiview Subdivision, its biggest housing project to date, will include 13 affordable homes for families in need, but there are concerns over parking and traffic flow.
Habiview Affordable Housing Project In Medford
The Habiview Subdivision aims to provide affordable homes for families earning between 40% and 80% of the federal median income.
Situated off Grandview Avenue in Medford, the project Patrick Miranda, a neighbor and former Medford City Planning Commission member, said, “It’s about helping people, and everyone deserves decent housing.”
Applications for the Habiview homes open on January 28 next year, and families selected for a home will have to help with the building, contribute 500 hours of volunteer work, and attend a series of educational courses to prepare for homeownership. There will also be orientation sessions to attend. Applications close on February 28, 2025.
Eight homes are expected to be finished by early next year, followed by the next five.
Concern Over Medford Habitat For Humanity Homes
Nearby residents have raised concerns, including the red-striping of streets near the development, which may limit parking and lead to parking issues.
Denise James, Executive Director of Rogue Valley Habitat for Humanity, reiterated that the initiative is a community effort, underlining the importance of affordable housing but noted that some residents were unhappy about the new houses.
James pointed out that neighbors’ concerns could be managed through communication and understanding.
Many see the Habiview Subdivision as a necessary measure to help address the Rogue Valley housing crisis despite the concerns raised. Miranda hoped that people would be considerate and said that neighbors are who you make them.
James said “Affordable housing gives families the chance to thrive, and ultimately, it strengthens the neighborhood.” This sentiment underscores the value and necessity of the Habiview Subdivision.